Diplomatic Relations
The diplomatic relations which the Sovereign Order of Malta enjoys with 118 countries(opens in new tab) and with the European Union, its permanent observer status at the United Nations, and the international Cooperation Agreements concluded with over 50 states, exist to facilitate its humanitarian activities, and allow unrestricted and protected access especially in crisis regions.
The Order’s diplomatic network strengthens its relationships with the governments of the countries in which it operates. This network allows its medical programmes to be integrated into national and regional healthcare systems and to facilitate the importing of healthcare equipment to reach people in need as quickly as possible.
The Order of Malta and the Government of Canada
In June 2008, the Government of Canada established official relations with the Order of Malta. The Minister of Foreign Affairs wrote to the Grand Master saying, "Canada holds the Order of Malta in the highest esteem, and appreciates its long-standing charitable and humanitarian work".
The Ambassador of Canada to the Holy See is designated as Canada's official representative with the Order of Malta. The President of the Canadian Association facilitates the functioning of official relations between the Order and Canada.
The Order of Malta and the United Nations
The Order of Malta received Permanent Observer Status at the United Nations in 1994.
In September 2024 His Most Eminent Highness Fra' John Dunlap became the first Grand Master to visit the headquarters of the United Nations in New York. He met with the Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, and delivered an address during the United Nations Summit of the Future.
Ambassador Paul Beresford-Hill, Permanent Observer to the United Nations in New York, regularly speaks at meetings of the United Nations. On August 26, 2026 he addressed the UN Security Council Open Debate on Food Crises. On June 19, 2026, he addressed the Economic and Social Council about Malteser International. On April 30, 2026, he addressed the Security Council about the situation in the Middle East.
The Sovereign Military Order of Malta - Canadian Association
Email: executivedirector@orderofmaltacanada.org, Telephone: (613) 731-8897