Progress reported toward Vatican-Israel accord
June 15, 2011
Negotiators for the Holy See and Israel reported “very significant progress” in their latest talks about a juridical agreement to establish the legal rights of the Church in the Holy Land.
The elusive accord—which was promised in the “fundamental agreement” that paved the way for Vatican recognition of Israel in 1993—would address issues such as the tax liability of churches, the legal standing of missionaries, and the right of access to shrines in Israel. Vatican officials have frequently complained about the lack of progress toward that pact.
This week’s negotiations, held in Rome, ended with an agreement to continue the talks in Jerusalem in December.
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Further information:
- Joint Communique of the Bilateral Permanent Working Commission (Holy See)
- Vatican, Israel report progress on improving ties (JTA)
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