On June 26, a reception of the Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta took place in the Royal Palace “Vrana” on the occasion of the Order’s national day – June 24 – Patron Saint’s Day – Saint John the Baptist. Ambassador Ursula Hofter Zuccoli welcomed H.E. King Simeon II, fellow Ambassadors from over 30 countries, diplomats, bishops and clergy from the Catholic Church in Bulgaria, business representatives, university professors, public figures, journalists and artists. The national anthems of Bulgaria and the Order of Malta were solemnly performed by the National guards unit band.
In her speech, Ambassador Hoefter Zuccoli emphasized the thirtieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Order of Malta and Bulgaria, as well as the Order’s ties with the royal family, in whose home the reception was held. She thanked everyone who contributed to the development of bilateral relations – representatives of the Bulgarian authorities, but also partners, sponsors and volunteers of the Order of Malta.
Especially for the occasion, the Grand Chancellor of the Order of Malta had sent a greeting message, which the Ambassador read. In it, Ricardo Paternò di Montecupo assures that the Order of Malta will continue to take care of the most needy people in Bulgaria. He expresses confidence that relations will be strengthened and developed further in the next thirty years and beyond.