Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has conveyed his nation’s concern for Pope Francis' condition and extended wishes for his speedy recovery, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Focus Taiwan reported.

The 88-year-old pontiff has been in critical condition since the weekend, suffering from pneumonia in both lungs and other complications. He was hospitalised at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital more than a week ago.

MOFA spokesman Hsiao Kuangwei stated that President Lai, on behalf of the government and people of Taiwan, has expressed concern through Taiwan’s embassy in the Vatican and is praying for the pope’s recovery.

The Vatican is one of the few soverign states currently recognising Taiwan over China, although how a change of Pope or indeed a change of attitude by Beijing towards the Catholic Church in the country would play out is an issue open to debate.

Ambassador Mathew Lee also participated in a Rosary prayer at St. Peter’s Square, led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, on February 24.

Pope Francis was initially admitted on February 14 with bronchitis. The Vatican later confirmed he had developed pneumonia, requiring additional medical attention. By February 25, officials reported a slight improvement in his condition, allowing him to resume some duties while remaining critically ill.

With Taiwan maintaining formal diplomatic ties with the Holy See, its only European ally, the relationship dates to 1942 when Taiwan’s government was still based on the Asian mainland. However, Vatican-China relations have evolved since Francis became pope in 2013.

A 2018 agreement between the Vatican and Beijing on appointing Chinese bishops was seen as a milestone and is expected to be renewed later this year. However, tensions have emerged after Beijing appointed bishops without Vatican approval, violating the agreement.