On 21 and 22 April 2025, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco will welcome Fra’ John Dunlap, Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta, for an official visit to the Principality of Monaco. The delegation, led by the Grand Master, will include H.E. the Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo (Minister of Foreign Affairs and Interior), Ms Fabiana Giovannoni, Chief of Staff to the Grand Master, H.E. Ambassador Giampaolo Cantini, Secretary General of Foreign Affairs, Mr Giovanni Borgiani, Head of Ceremonial, and Ms Barbara Vitali, Head of the Foreign Affairs Desk.

This visit, following that of former Grand Master Fra’ Matthew Festing in July 2011, strengthens the historic ties between the Principality of Monaco and the Sovereign Order of Malta, dating back to the 16th century. In 1565, Honoré I of Monaco sent three galleons to aid the Knights during the Great Siege of Malta, marking the beginning of a profound relationship. Today, this partnership is expressed through joint humanitarian initiatives, such as those in Lebanon and Senegal, and robust diplomatic relations, further enhanced by the presence in Monaco of only two other resident ambassadors, those of France and Italy.

The visit’s programme includes, on Monday 21 April, a meeting with members of the Monegasque Association of the Order of Malta, which celebrates over 50 years of activity in the Principality, followed by a visit to the Cardio-Thoracic Centre. On Tuesday 22 April, after a solemn Mass officiated by H.E. Mgr Dominique-Marie David, Archbishop of Monaco, the Grand Master will be received in a private audience by H.S.H. Prince Albert II. The day will continue with an official lunch hosted by H.S.H. Prince Albert II and H.S.H. Princess Charlene, and conclude with a visit to the Palatine Chapel, a symbol of the Principality’s spiritual tradition.

This visit represents a significant opportunity to deepen the cooperation between Monaco and the Order of Malta, uniting history, faith, and humanitarian commitment.