To mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Albania and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, a special reception was held at the Palace of Brigades in Tirana. The Grand Chancellor of the Order of Malta, His Excellency Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, extended his heartfelt greetings, which were read by the Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Albania, His Excellency Stefano Palumbo.
In his message, the Grand Chancellor reflected on the history and significance of this enduring partnership:
The first presence of the Order of Malta in Albania dates back to 1994 when the Republic of Albania and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta officially established diplomatic relations. This was shortly after the fall of communism. The country was grappling with severe poverty, and its people were in dire need of basic necessities. The Order of Malta stepped in with emergency aid, marking the beginning of a profound relationship.
The same year the Order’s opened its Embassy in Tirana and Malteser Albania relief corps was established one year later initiating regular humanitarian activities in northern Albania. This was a significant boost ot the development of our bilateral relations, fostering a spirit of solidarity and support. Since then, the Order has carried out numerous vital activities to assist those in need. During the Kosovo conflict in 1999, for example, the Order provided essential assistance to civilians, and it has continued to support Albania during various humanitarian crises, including the Afghan refugee crisis and emergency floods in the Shkodra region and elsewhere. The Order’s work in Albania also include medical, social, educational and humanitarian assistance.
At the institutional level, over the years a Cooperation Agreement and a Postal Agreement were signed, and a large number of official visits were exchanged between Albania’s and the Order’s highest institutional representatives, including a few Official Visits at the level of Heads of State. Only two months ago H.E. Bajram Begaj paid an Official Visit to H.M.E.H. the Prince and Grand Master of the Order Fra’ John T. Dunlap.
I rejoice at our friendly bonds and excellent bilateral relations as well as at our close cooperation. Spurred on by the motto tuitio fidei and obsequium pauperum (defence of the faith and assistance to the poor), the Order of Malta will continue to provide the neediest people in Albania with care and assistance. In this respect, let me express our gratitude for supporting our efforts and joining the forces.
2024 is a special year as it marks the 30th anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Albania and the Sovereign Order of Malta. I am glad to address, on behalf of myself and the Government of the Order, our warmest greetings and special thanks to all the esteemed representatives of the Bulgarian institutions attending today’s celebrations. I am confident that our relations will be strengthened and developed further in the next thirty years and beyond.
Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo
