In Italy, President Giorgio Napolitano has resigned as head of state, less than two years after accepting a second term. Napolitano left the Quirinale Palace, the official residence for President after a ceremony and bade an emotional farewell to his staff. Prime Minister Matteo Renzi praised Napolitano's public service, saying the President had dedicated his life to Italy.
Napolitano, a popular figurehead, said he did not plan to serve all seven years of his second term because of poor health. Reports say that Napolitano's resignation will test his ability to unite his own party without alienating opposition support for electoral reform.