A high-level delegation from the Sovereign Order of Malta, led by Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, is visiting Lebanon to reaffirm their support for the nation’s stability and reconstruction efforts. The visit encompasses meetings with key Lebanese leaders and site visits to ongoing projects, illustrating the order’s dedication to providing assistance amid the country’s ongoing crises.
The Sovereign Order of Malta has reaffirmed its commitment to Lebanon’s stability through a three-day official visit led by Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo. The agenda of the high-level delegation includes discussions on ways to assist Lebanon in overcoming its crises and enhancing its recovery efforts through collaboration with the country’s new leadership.
Beginning their visit at the presidential palace in Baabda, Montecupo met with President Joseph Aoun alongside key members of the order, including ambassador Maria Cortese. During this first meeting, he relayed congratulations from the grand master, John Dunlap, reaffirming the order’s ongoing dedication to Lebanon’s stability, with 60 active projects focusing on pastoral, educational, and cultural initiatives.
Montecupo underscored the significance of maintaining stability for economic recovery in Lebanon. He emphasized the order’s commitment to provide assistance while retaining its neutrality and independence, stating, “We will spare no effort to support the Lebanese people.” Aoun recognized the difficulties ahead but affirmed that rebuilding Lebanon is feasible with genuine political will and broader international support.
The delegation’s itinerary also included meetings with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, where they discussed Lebanon’s political and economic landscape. With over 70 years of engagement in Lebanon, the Sovereign Order of Malta remains committed to health care, social integration, and agricultural development, as demonstrated during site visits to various humanitarian projects, including mobile medical units and the St. John the Baptist Center.
Future plans include inaugurating a new humanitarian agricultural project and convening with Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros al-Rahi. This visit solidifies the order’s continual support amid Lebanon’s reconstruction phase, highlighting their collaborative approach with Lebanese institutions.
The Sovereign Order of Malta is taking proactive steps to foster Lebanon’s stability and recovery by engaging with its leadership and supporting numerous projects across the country. Through this three-day visit and ongoing initiatives, the order demonstrates a longstanding commitment to assisting the Lebanese people, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and international support during this critical reconstruction phase.
Original Source: www.catholicnewsagency.com
