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Why was Angelo Roncalli sent as papal nuncio to France after World War II?

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St. John XXIII Pope John XXIII said the goal of his papacy was to “bring the church up to date” and regenerate Catholic faith.

Angelo Roncalli was appointed papal nuncio to France at the end of 1944 to navigate a highly volatile political climate following the nation's liberation.1

His predecessor, Monsignor Valerio Valeri, had maintained close ties with the collaborationist Vichy government and Gen. Philippe Pétain, rendering him persona non grata to Charles de Gaulle and the French public. Roncalli was selected for his genial nature, as the Vatican believed his temperament was uniquely suited to address the following challenges:1

Diplomatic Repair: He was tasked with cooling the intense atmosphere of vengeance against bishops who had cooperated with the Vichy regime and reestablishing the independence of the church.1
Humanitarian Efforts: He was expected to secure the release of German seminarians held as prisoners of war.1
Internal Church Tensions: He had to manage concerns from the Roman Curia regarding radicalism among the younger French clergy.1

Ultimately, his success in these delicate duties led to his elevation to cardinal.1