China says agreed to extend deal with Vatican on bishop appointments

China and the Vatican have agreed to extend an accord on the appointment of Catholic bishops in the communist country for a period of four years, the two parties said on Tuesday.

The accord, which was previously renewed every two years, gives China's communist officials possible input into who Pope Francis appoints. A Chinese foreign ministry first announced the renewal at a press briefing in Beijing. The Vatican confirmed the move in a statement, saying it "remains dedicated to furthering the respectful and constructive dialogue" with China.