From Radio Free Europe (link):
China’s recent appointment of new Catholic Bishops without the consent of the Vatican is a setback to gradually improving ties between Beijing and the Holy See. The move by the state-recognized Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association came after five years during which bishops were appointed only with the tacit agreement of the pope. Why has China decided to upset the atmosphere just when its 55-year break with Rome looked to be healing?
See also “When Celestial Kingdoms Collide” from the New York Times (link).