This morning, Saturday 6 May 2017, the Holy Father Francis received Her Excellency Doris Leuthard, president of the Swiss Confederation, who subsequently met with His Excellency Msgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, aside from mentioning the generous service of the Pontifical Swiss Guard on the day of the swearing in of new members, 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.