On the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Eswatini's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Pholile Shakantu, signed a diplomatic declaration with the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta. The declaration was signed with the organisation's Grand Counsellor, Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, who also serves as Malta's Minister of Foreign Affairs. This development marks a significant milestone in the relations between Eswatini and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.
The diplomatic declaration expresses the parties' desire to develop and strengthen collaboration and friendship for mutual benefit. It provides a basis for advancing reciprocal understanding, cooperation, and developing fruitful relations between the two parties. The declaration reflects the shared interest of Eswatini and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in strengthening engagement and identifying areas of mutual benefit. This move is expected to enhance cooperation between the two parties in various areas.
Minister Shakantu emphasized that the government views the strengthening of international partnerships as an important component of its foreign policy and diplomatic engagement. The signing of the declaration demonstrates Eswatini's commitment to constructive international cooperation and building partnerships that contribute to mutual understanding and shared objectives. This move aligns with Eswatini's foreign policy goals of fostering cooperation with other nations.
The Sovereign Military Order of Malta is a unique entity with diplomatic relations with over 100 countries. The Order's Grand Chancellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, is responsible for the foreign policy and diplomatic missions of the Sovereign Order of Malta. He is also the Minister of Internal Affairs, in charge of the 49 National Associations of the Order worldwide.
Minister Shakantu expressed Eswatini's enthusiasm for continued engagement with the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in advancing the commitments contained in the declaration. The two parties are expected to work together to strengthen relations and explore areas of mutual benefit. This new partnership is anticipated to have a positive impact on Eswatini's international relations.
The signing of the diplomatic declaration took place on September 24, 2026, during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. This event highlights the importance of multilateral forums in fostering international cooperation and diplomacy. Eswatini and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta have taken a significant step in strengthening their bilateral relations.
The new partnership between Eswatini and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta is expected to promote cooperation in areas such as health, education, and humanitarian assistance. The two parties will work together to identify areas of mutual benefit and develop joint initiatives. This development marks a significant milestone in Eswatini's diplomatic engagement with the international community.
Key points
- Eswatini and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta have signed a diplomatic declaration to strengthen collaboration and friendship.
- The declaration reflects the shared interest of Eswatini and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in strengthening engagement and identifying areas of mutual benefit.
- The partnership is expected to promote cooperation in areas such as health, education, and humanitarian assistance.
