WHAT: Political commentator Francesco Sisci discusses possible impacts of a new pope as seen from Beijing, Taipei and the rest of Asia (ONLINE)

WHEN: May 7, 2025, Wednesday, from 7:00- 8:00 PM Beijing Time

MORE ABOUT THE EVENT: For clues regarding what's at stake as the papal conclave opens in Rome, veteran commentator Francesco Sisci discusses online for RASBJ why analysts from Beijing to Taipei to Manila are focused on the Vatican's election of a new pope. On the eve of the conclave, Vatican-watchers have been studying topics including the Holy See's international role, whether its diplomatic ties with Taipei can be sustained, why Beijing's view is important, and what are the implications raised by the possibility of an Asian pope.

HOW MUCH: This online event is free for RASBJ members; RMB 50 for members of RAS branches in London, Shanghai and Hong Kong; and RMB 100 for non-members. Interested in becoming an RASBJ member? Please sign up at https://rasbj.org/membership/​

HOW TO JOIN THE EVENT: Please click "Register" or "I Will Attend" by noon May 6 and follow the instructions. After successful registration you'll receive a confirmation email with a link to join the event. If you seem not to have received it, please check your spam folder.

Members of partner RAS branches: Please register 72 hours in advance to allow time for membership verification. You will receive several emails from RASBJ; please check your spam folder to ensure you see all our emails. You may wish to pay by Alipay If you encounter difficulties paying with Wechat Pay; international credit cards are also accepted.

MORE ABOUT THE SPEAKER: Francesco Sisci is an Italian analyst and political commentator who has covered the topic of China-Vatican relations extensively. He was based in Beijing for many years as a foreign correspondent and has more than 30 years of experience in China and Asia. Currently based in Rome, his commentaries appear on the Appia Institute website https://www.appiainstitute.org/profile/fsisci/#​

REFUND POLICY: If the event is cancelled by RASBJ, all paid-up registrants will be refunded.