The President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, received this morning at the Quirinale Palace, in an official visit, the Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes, and of Malta, Fra’ John T. Dunlap, subsequently hosting him for breakfast.
The meeting underscored the longstanding and reciprocal support that has consistently connected the Order of Malta and the Italian Republic. President Mattarella, after emphasizing the “excellent and solid ties” between Italy and the Order of Malta, expressed profound appreciation for the Order’s role in humanitarian diplomacy and interreligious dialogue. The President stated, “Italy stands alongside the Order and intends to continue supporting your efforts for peace and humanitarian aid,” citing the notable example of the “Bethlehem Hospital” in the Holy Land.
Various topics were covered during the discussions, ranging from historical and cultural connections to the Italian language serving as a common thread among the Order’s diverse entities. Diplomatic relations, refugee protection, issues concerning Ukraine and the Holy Land, as well as the bilateral agreement with the Italian Relief Corps, were also addressed. The meeting provided an opportunity to highlight numerous healthcare and aid initiatives aimed at assisting the most vulnerable. In Italy, the Order is actively involved in over 1.5 million health services annually.
The talks centered on the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, the Holy Land situation, and major international scenarios, emphasizing the crucial role of humanitarian activities in crisis zones to ensure security and support for the most fragile populations.
The Order of Malta’s engagement in regions affected by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was discussed, highlighting its management of the Holy Family Hospital in Bethlehem. Since 1990, the hospital has not only provided high-quality medical assistance but has also witnessed the birth of over 100,000 babies. President Mattarella remarked that the Order’s distinctive vision and authority stem from its impactful presence in the area. Equally noteworthy is the Order’s commitment in Ukraine, where it has been actively involved since the conflict’s inception, assisting 300,000 individuals at borders, distributing 6,700 tons of humanitarian aid in 71 different towns, and providing psychological assistance and first-aid training.
During the visit, the Order of Malta’s significant contributions in Italy were acknowledged, particularly its 15-year involvement in rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean Sea and participating in civil protection interventions. Since 2008, the Order of Malta has delivered medical assistance and relief to 250,000 migrants and refugees, offering 24/7 medical personnel both on the mainland, including locations like Lampedusa, and at sea aboard Coast Guard vessels.
