Berset meets pope as new Swiss Guards are sworn in
Swiss Interior Minister Alain Berset shakes hands with Pope Francis in St Peter’s Square on May 6, the traditional day when new members of the Swiss Guard are sworn in.
The day began with Mass in St Peter’s Basilica. The actual swearing-in ceremony for the 32 new Swiss Guards – when they take the oath to protect the pope – was held on Wednesday evening.
The ceremony was attended not only by Berset but also by the official delegation from guest canton Valais, which has provided eight of the 32 new guards.
During his visit to Rome, Berset met the Italian Minister of Labour and Social Policies, Giuliano Poletti. According to the Swiss interior ministry, topics discussed included pension reforms and the situation for older workers in Switzerland and Italy.
The Swiss Guard has a 500-year tradition, and is the smallest official army in the world. In January the head of the Swiss guard was replaced, with the abrupt decision leading to speculation that he had been dismissed because of his tough leadership style.
May 6 was the day of the Sack of Rome by the troops of Charles V, leader of the Holy Roman Empire, in 1527. During the pillaging, 147 Swiss Guards died saving Pope Clement VII.
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