The Order of Malta intends to develop humanitarian cooperation with Russia in Syria, said Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Russia Eamone di Savoie Aosta at a meeting with Konstantin Kosachev, Chairman of the NF Committee on International Affairs.
The armed conflict in Syria has been going on since 2011. In late 2017, it was announced that the ISIS terrorist group in Syria and Iraq was defeated. Mop-ups of militants continue in some areas of the countries. The political settlement, reconstruction of Syria, as well as the return of refugees are now in the foreground.
“We are working hard in Syria, and for the Sovereign Order of Malta it is an important moment to protect Christians. We have been given the task of developing this area of religious protection. I hope for cooperation”, – he said.
The diplomat reminded that there are two social centers of the Order in Russia.
“In St. Petersburg there is a centre with a canteen for the homeless, and in Moscow there is a social centre where we intend to develop opportunities for training in various disciplines, from German to practice caring for the elderly and the sick”, – the ambassador said.
He explained that German language teaching is financed by the German Order of Malta.
“I hope that I will be able to find funding in Russia to develop these centers even more”, – he said.
The Sovereign Military Order of Hospitals of St. John, Rhodes and Malta was founded in 1099 by the Crusaders in Jerusalem. After the Muslims captured the Holy Land, they moved to Rhodes, and then settled in Malta. At present, the headquarters of the Order are in Rome.
The basic direction of activity of the Maltese knights is the charity which they are engaged in 120 countries, including in “hot spots”. The Order’s programmes include, for example, medical care and social support, including for older persons and persons with disabilities, humanitarian assistance to victims of armed conflict and natural disasters.
The Sovereign Order of Malta has diplomatic relations with more than 100 states and the European Union, as well as permanent observer status with the UN.