BEIJING, Oct. 21 (Xinhua) -- A foreign ministry spokesperson said on Friday that China is sincere in its aim to improve ties with the Vatican and is making considerable efforts to do so.

Spokesperson Hua Chunying made the remarks while responding to a question at a daily news briefing.

Media reports have said that representatives from the Vatican and China are expected to meet in Rome before the end of the month in an effort to finalize a deal on the ordination of bishops in China.

Hua said China and the Vatican have effective channels for dialogue.

"We are willing to make joint efforts with the Vatican to meet each other half way and keep improving bilateral ties with constructive dialogue," she added.