The Prince and Grand Master of the Order of Malta Fra’ Andrew Bertie has expressed his grief at the news of the death of H.S.H. Prince Ranieri III of Monaco.

The Grand Master and all the members of the Order offer their heartfelt condolences to the prince’s family, so deeply affected by the loss of the sovereign who has led the Principality of Monaco since 1949 with such great commitment and dedication.

Prince Ranieri has been a member of the Order of Malta since 1956 with the rank of Bailiff Grand Cross of Honour and Devotion. In 1997 he received the Cross of Profession ad honorem, one of the Order’s highest honours.

The Grand Master has sent a telegram of condolence to Prince Albert.