Marking three decades of Permanent Observer Status of the Sovereign Order of Malta with the United Nations, H.E. Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, Grand Chancellor of the Sovereign Order of Malta, embarked on an official visit to Vienna from 26-27 November 2024, to underscore the Order’s commitment to multilateral diplomacy and humanitarian cooperation.

A central feature of the visit was a series of high-level discussions with the Executive Heads of four key UN and Vienna-based International Organizations: the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO). Ostensibly, the Grand Chancellor’s meeting with all the four Executive Heads highlights the value and standing that the Sovereign Order of Malta holds within the United Nations. These meetings culminated in the renewal and hence, signing of joint declarations aimed at strengthening collective actions and activities based on the common pillars and vital issues, including alleviating the suffering and providing assistance to those in need and the poor.

Key agreements included the continuous collaboration with the IAEA on the “Rays of Hope” initiative, enhancing cancer care and prevention through education and resource mobilization. UNIDO’s partnership focused on alleviating poverty through sustainable agricultural projects in the Global South, while agreements with UNODC reinforced joint efforts to combat human trafficking and support the long-standing youth initiative. The meeting with CTBTO reaffirmed the shared commitment to global peace and security, aligning with the Order’s long-standing dedication to fostering stability in conflict zones. The visit’s highlight was a vibrant ceremony followed by a reception hosted at the Vienna International Centre, celebrating the Sovereign Order of Malta’s historic collaboration with the United Nations. During his keynote speech, the Grand Chancellor of the Order, H.E. Mr. Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Heads for their collaboration and reaffirmed the critical role of multilateral diplomacy in addressing today’s most pressing global challenges.

Emphasizing the enduring partnership between the Sovereign Order of Malta and the United Nations, he called for renewed commitment to humanitarian principles and sustainable development, underscoring the shared responsibility to foster international solidarity and peace. The evening was complemented with performances by members of the “Wiener Philharmoniker,” who captivated attendees with a selection of classical masterpieces, showcasing their world-renowned artistry. The guest list reflected the significance of the occasion, with over 70 ambassadors in attendance, joined by prominent Austrian dignitaries and high-level officials, including General Secretary, H.E. Nikolaus Marschik, and Chief of Protocol, S.E. Maximillian Hennig, of the Federal Ministry for European and International affairs. Their presence underscored the deep diplomatic ties the Order continues to cultivate. Furthermore, the Grand Chancellor’s diplomatic engagements extended beyond the UN community. H.E. Alexander Schallenberg, Austria’s Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, welcomed the Grand Chancellor for a working meeting discussing joint humanitarian work. This historic visit commemorated the Sovereign Order of Malta’s enduring contributions to global humanitarian efforts and highlighted its steadfast partnership with the United Nations. It stands as a testament to the Order’s pivotal role in advancing shared objectives for global well-being, peace, and solidarity.