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ROME– Pope Francis says he refuses to travel in a “sardine can” bullet-proof Popemobile because, despite concerns for his security, at his age he has nothing to lose.

Pope Francis has brushed off fears for his personal security, saying he wants to engage with ordinary people.

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The 77-year-old pontiff has created a security headache for Vatican officials with his refusal to ride in Popemobiles equipped with enclosed, bullet-proof glass domes.

There were particular fears for his safety during his recent trip to the Holy Land, which involved public appearances in Jordan, Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Similar concerns arose last July when he made a week-long trip to Rio de Janeiro, where he toured a favela and rode in an open-topped white jeep beside Copacabana beach.

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Pope Francis, who was elected in March last year, said: “It’s true that anything could happen, but, let’s face it, at my age I don’t have much to lose.”