A high-level delegation from the Sovereign Order of Malta is visiting Lebanon to reinforce its commitment to the country’s stability and reconstruction. The delegation, led by Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, is engaging with political leaders, exploring strategies to support Lebanon amid its crises, and showcasing ongoing humanitarian projects. President Joseph Aoun emphasized the importance of international collaboration in reconstruction efforts.
A high-level delegation from the Sovereign Order of Malta is currently touring Lebanon to express its steadfast commitment to the country’s stability and reconstruction. Led by Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, the visit spans three days, focusing on strategies to aid Lebanon in overcoming its enduring crises and facilitating recovery and reconstruction under new leadership.
The delegation commenced its visit at the presidential palace in Baabda, where Montecupo met with President Joseph Aoun. Alongside him were Maria Cortese, the order’s ambassador to Lebanon, and other key representatives. During this meeting, Montecupo relayed congratulations from Grand Master John Dunlap, who expressed a desire to welcome Aoun at the order’s headquarters in Rome soon, while reaffirming the Order’s strong commitment to Lebanon’s progress and stability.
Montecupo mentioned the Order’s implementation of 60 pastoral, educational, and cultural projects in Lebanon and provided updates about a conference on Lebanon held in February. He announced plans for another gathering scheduled for April 10 in Rome. He stressed the vital importance of stability for Lebanon’s economic recovery and reassured Aoun of the Order’s intention to assist the Lebanese people, emphasizing its neutrality and independence, stating, “We will spare no effort to support the Lebanese people.”
President Aoun recognized the significant challenges Lebanon faces but maintained that the nation’s reconstruction is achievable with authentic political will. He underscored the necessity of international economic and political support, referring to previous collaborations between the Order and Lebanese entities, including the military. He praised the Order’s commitment to national projects, noting that they are executed without political, sectarian, or religious biases.
The delegation also engaged with Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to discuss Lebanon’s political and economic contexts as well as ongoing projects of the Order. Active in Lebanon for over 70 years, the Sovereign Order of Malta’s initiatives have focused on healthcare, social integration, and agricultural development. This visit serves to reaffirm its unwavering support for the Lebanese populace amidst ongoing reconstruction efforts, including site visits to various development and humanitarian projects.
The Sovereign Order of Malta’s recent delegation visit to Lebanon underscores its long-term commitment to the country’s stability and reconstruction. With constructive meetings with key political figures and ongoing humanitarian projects, the Order aims to support Lebanon through its current challenges. Montecupo’s remarks on the need for stability and international support resonate with Aoun’s call for genuine political will to rebuild the nation, highlighting the vital role of collaboration and assistance in Lebanon’s recovery efforts.
Original Source: www.catholicnewsagency.com
