The Swiss foreign ministry is examining the possibility of a permanent Swiss diplomatic representation at the Vatican, it said on Tuesday, confirming media reports.
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At present, the Swiss ambassador to Slovenia, Denis Knobel, who is co-accredited to the Holy See, represents Switzerland’s interests in the Vatican.
The possibility of a permanent diplomatic mission was raised during a recent meeting between Guy Parmelin, who currently holds the Swiss rotating presidency, and Pope Francis in the Vatican, said media reports.
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Parmelin visits the Vatican for Swiss Guard swearing in
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Switzerland’s President met Pope Francis in the Vatican on Thursday, in a visit that also included the swearing-in of 34 new Swiss Guards.
Parmelin spoke with Francis, and with the Vatican’s Cardinal Secretary of State, notably about the service of the Swiss Guard and the “good relations” between Switzerland and the Holy See, according to a Vatican press release. The Swiss Guard was founded in 1506 by Pope Julius II, deposed twice and re-established in 1800. It remains tasked with protecting the pope and his residence.
With regard to a permanent diplomatic mission, the foreign ministry stressed the final decision would be down to the Federal Council (government), which decides on changes to the diplomatic network abroad, and it must also consult the foreign policy committees. “The FDFA (Federal Department of Foreign Affairs) is therefore unable to comment further for the time being,” it said.
Switzerland commits CHF50 million to combat rural poverty worldwide
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The Federal Council approved a contribution of CHF49.5 million ($54.1 million) for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Arrests made in raid against Turkish criminal organisation
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A cross-border raid against a Turkish criminal organisation was conducted, including property searches in cantons Aargau and Zurich.
Up to 4,000 Swiss army soldiers to protect Ukraine peace conference
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The Federal Council has authorised deployment of army personnel for the Ukraine peace conference on the Bürgenstock in June.
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The business association, Swissmem, reports that there are increasing signs that the bottom of the downturn will be reached this year.
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Switzerland cooperates with Vatican fraud investigation
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The justice ministry has sent documents to the Vatican as part of an investigation into suspected bribery related to a London property purchase.
Government against military tax waiver for Vatican’s Swiss Guard
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The parliament is considering a proposal to exempt the Swiss Guard from paying a penalty for not completing their mandatory military service.
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If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.