The idea of an official visit by Pope Benedict XVI to China was ''entirely premature,'' the Vatican said Thursday.
Responding to an invitation the bishop of Beijing, Joseph Li Shan, made Wednesday during a television interview, Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said there were still ''unresolved problems'' between China and the Holy See.
But Lombardi said the bishop's invitation was an encouraging sign.
''The words of Bishop Li show that all Chinese Catholics love and respect the pope, recognise his authority and would be happy to meet him, and this is certainly very positive and encouraging,'' Lombardi added.
''Various problems remain unresolved, but for its part the Holy See intends to continue to forge ahead with a frank and constructive dialogue,'' he added.
Bishop Li, who was appointed by the Chinese government but is recognised by the Vatican, told Italian television on Wednesday that relations between the Holy See and Beijing ''continue to improve''.
''We really hope that Benedict XVI will make a trip to China. It's a great wish, and we've wanted it to happen for some time,'' he said.
The pope has called for greater dialogue with the officially atheist state, making it clear he wants to eventually restore full diplomatic ties with Beijing.
Ties were severed in 1951, soon after the Communist Revolution.
Tensions between the two states continue to be fed by the uncertain status of China's Catholic community.
Said to number between 12 and 14 million, it is divided between the 'underground' community whose final allegiance is with the pope and those who accept the ultimate authority of the Chinese state.
The underground community often has to worship in private houses and there are frequent reports of harassment.
But Bishop Li on Wednesday said ''the problem of clandestine Catholics does not exist''.
The split between China and the Holy See also makes every bishop's appointment a source of tension.
The Vatican says it should have the final word, a situation which is unacceptable for the state-run Patriotic Association of Chinese Catholics.
In July, Chinese authorities invited Hong Kong bishop, John Tong Hon, to the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games, a move seen as further evidence of a thaw in relations.
Earlier this month the pope urged China to ''open up to Christ''.
