Pope Francis received in audience the president of the Swiss Federation, Doris Leuthard, the morning of May 8, 2017.
According to a statement released by the Holy See Press Office, the discussions were cordial, and highlighted the good existing relations between the Holy See and Switzerland.
“Aside from mentioning the generous service of the Pontifical Swiss Guard on the day of the swearing in of new members,” the statement noted, “the parties emphasized the mutual wish to further strengthen the existing good relations between the Holy See and Switzerland, and to intensify collaboration between the Catholic Church and the State.”
“Various themes of common interest were then considered, such as the future of the European continent, the reception of migrants, the challenge of the world of work for the young, the fight against terrorism and commitment to the protection of the environment,” it stated.
After meeting with the Pope, the President of the Swiss Federation met with Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.
