The Vatican plans to keep a close eye on the reform process in Germany’s Catholic Church, according to a joint statement published after a meeting between German bishops and representatives of the Roman Curia on Friday evening. After conflicts had arisen in the past, both sides now spoke of a “positive, open and constructive atmosphere.” The one-day meeting in the Vatican was attended by Georg Bätzing, president of the German Bishops’ Conference, and several other bishops. Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandéz, one of Pope Francis’ closest allies, took part on behalf of the Vatican. The pontiff him…