The Sovereign Order of Malta’s ambassadors accredited to countries where Ordre de Malte France – the Order’s humanitarian aid agency in France – is present, met in Paris on 19 and 20 November 2024. The event, organised by Ordre de Malte France in its headquarters, was a chance for representatives of the Order of Malta and the diplomatic network to discuss plans for the future.
Jean-Marie Bockel, former minister and French President Emmanuel Macron’s personal envoy to Africa, opened the session by highlighting the key role played by relations between Africa and France.
On the second day, the Order of Malta’s Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo took the floor, stressing the importance of the diplomatic mission as an act of service and a witness to solidarity. In his speech, he said: “The question we must ask ourselves is whether what we do concretely can be further improved to measure up to our history. The Order of Malta must redress its presence in the world by strengthening activities where needs are greatest”.
Fra’ Alessandro de Franciscis, the Order of Malta’s Grand Hospitaller, then made a request to those present, stressing the essential role of diplomacy and the need to adapt to future challenges: “You, the diplomats engaged in Africa, must be the eyes and ears in these nations that are experiencing moments of great change, to help us to read and understand how the Order has to adapt and transform itself in the years to come, years that will see the African Renaissance decline.”
The two days included practical sessions and strategic discussions for strengthening the Order’s activities in African countries. Participants addressed key issues such as food security, healthcare, training and diplomatic relations. These meetings underscore the Order of Malta’s continued commitment to pursuing its diplomatic humanitarian mission in collaboration with local and international institutions.
Active in 35 African countries, the Order of Malta – through Ordre de Malte France and Malteser International, its international humanitarian aid organization – runs hospitals, medical centres and dispensaries that provide basic healthcare and in emergencies and develops psychosocial support projects. The Order’s facilities also provide assistance to patients with HIV, malaria and tuberculosis. Many of the Order’s hospitals and clinics are specialized in maternal child care. There are also many initiatives for infrastructure upgrading, water systems, sustainability projects and disaster risk reduction.
