Federal Councillor Albert Rösti acknowledges the significance of the Battle of Sempach
Published: Sunday, Jun 16th 2024, 15:20
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At the commemoration of the Battle of Sempach on Sunday, Federal Councillor Albert Rösti paid tribute to the event of 1386 as a decisive moment in the creation of Switzerland. He emphasized the continued relevance of courage, independence and the preservation of freedom in today's world.
According to the Lucerne State Chancellery, 1,300 visitors took part in the ceremony, which was held in the "tried and tested setting of previous years". Delegations from the host canton of Aargau and the host municipality of Romoos LU were also present.
In his speech, Federal Councillor Rösti used the historical events at Sempach as a symbol of the Swiss state, as he continued. This was not constituted by elites, but grew from the bottom up and passed on its liberal constitution as a legacy from generation to generation. And to this day, it continues to successfully stand up for its freedom and independence, according to Rösti.
The international peace conference on the Ukraine conflict, which took place at the same time 20 kilometers away as the crow flies on the Bürgenstock, demonstrated the topicality of the commemorative event, according to the press release.
The President of the Lucerne Government, Fabian Peter, pleaded for a vigorous commitment to peace, democracy and freedom from today's generation. This requires a willingness to engage in dialog on all sides and respect for democracy, its rules and representatives, said Peter.
The commemoration included the traditional morning meal and parade through the town, a service and ceremony in the parish church and a public aperitif.
The commemoration commemorates the battle of the victorious Confederates against the Habsburgs. It is considered part of the so-called wars of liberation against Habsburg feudal rule. The battle is also the scene of the legend of Arnold Winkelried. In the past, right-wing extremists have used the celebration for a march on several occasions.
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