At a historic moment marked by serious humanitarian crises, armed conflicts and growing threats to international security, the Sovereign Order of Malta and the Republic of Albania confirm their shared commitment to multilateral cooperation for peace, the protection of human rights and assistance to the most vulnerable. It is within this framework that the Grand Chancellor of the Order of Malta, Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, today received at the Magistral Villa on the Aventine Hill the Albanian Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, on his first official visit to the Order.
During the talks, the Grand Chancellor expressed his great satisfaction with the excellent state of bilateral relations, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024, and reiterated his appreciation for the Albanian authorities’ active cooperation in humanitarian diplomacy.
“Today’s visit is a tangible sign of the deep friendship between Albania and the Sovereign Order of Malta,” declared Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, who then added: “Our relations are based on shared values of solidarity, dialogue and humanitarian commitment. We intend to continue along this path and further strengthen our cooperation in the service of the most vulnerable”.
Minister Igli Hasani emphasised: “The Order has worked continuously in the areas of healthcare, civil protection, social assistance and vocational training, also supporting initiatives for the integration of people with disabilities, such as day centres and support programmes. Its constant presence and concrete commitment have made the Order of Malta a reliable partner for both civil society and public institutions in Albania”.
In the afternoon, the Grand Chancellor attended the official inauguration of the new headquarters of the Embassy of the Republic of Albania to the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta. The ceremony took place in the presence of Minister Hasani and Msgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States within the Holy See’s Secretariat of State.
The Order of Malta in Albania
The Sovereign Order of Malta is present in Albania through a relief corps with a staff of 20 and 120 volunteers. It operates mainly in the north of the country, where it provides basic medical care in the most remote mountain areas and promotes numerous educational and social activities for vulnerable communities, including Roma. The Order also assists returning migrants in the process of social reintegration, offering health support, basic necessities, vocational training and employment opportunities. Special attention is also given to the elderly, who receive medical care at home, social support and food aid. Regular distribution of medicines, clothing and food is another essential component of the Order’s humanitarian action in the country.
