Pope Francis received the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Federation, Guy Parmelin, in an audience, May 6, in the Vatican.

According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, the conversations with the Foreign Minister were cordial.

“During the cordial discussions, besides recalling the generous service of the Pontifical Swiss Guard on the day of the swearing-in of new members,” it noted, “appreciation was expressed for the good relations and fruitful collaboration between the Holy See and the Swiss Confederation.”

“In the context of the recent centenary of the resumption of diplomatic relations,” the statement continued, “the parties reiterated their wish to strengthen this reciprocal collaboration with regard to the principal international issues and in areas of mutual interest.”

Following the encounter with the Holy Father, Foreign Minister Parmelin, met with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, accompanied by Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.