Unique Humanitarian Diplomacy of the Order of Malta

On 25 June 2025, H.E. Ambassador Niels Carl A. Lorijn and his wife welcomed representatives of the Polish government, the diplomatic corps, international organizations, and friends to celebrate the Feast of St. John the Baptist – the patron saint of the Sovereign Order of Malta.

In his address, Ambassador Lorijn reflected on the Order’s deep historical roots and its vital role in addressing contemporary crises and conflicts. The year 2025 marks a significant milestone: 35 years since Poland and the Order of Malta established diplomatic relations. While the formal relationship spans just over three decades, as Ambassador Lorijn noted, the ties between the Order and Polish lands go back nearly 900 years. Returning from the Holy Land, Polish Knights of St. John founded the first commanderies in Gdańsk, Szczecin, Poznań, and Silesia.

Today, the Order’s work in Poland is focused on medical and social assistance. Reactivated after 1989, the Polish Association of the Order of Malta manages numerous programs supporting the elderly, the disabled, refugees, and disaster victims. Since 2015, its cooperation with the Polish government has intensified – especially regarding support for Ukraine. In May of this year, a framework agreement was signed with the Council for Cooperation with Ukraine, marking a new chapter in the partnership. This agreement covers emergency relief, healthcare, and project development in war-affected regions.

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