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Polish president, Knights of Malta leader meet in Warsaw

18.03.2024 14:00
Poland's President Andrzej Duda has met with John Dunlap, the head of the lay Catholic order of the Knights of Malta, praising the global humanitarian organisation for its assistance to Ukraine.
Andrzej Duda (right) and John Dunlap (left) meet in Warsaw on Monday.
Andrzej Duda (right) and John Dunlap (left) meet in Warsaw on Monday.Photo: PAP/Paweł Supernak

The Knights of Malta is an ancient chivalric order that runs hospitals and provides humanitarian aid throughout the world.

Dunlap is a Canadian lawyer who was last year elected the order's Grand Master. 

Officials told reporters that Dunlap's visit to Warsaw on Monday "underscores the enduring diplomatic relations between Poland and the Sovereign Order of Malta," which is known for its humanitarian efforts as well as diplomatic engagements.

The visit began with a welcoming ceremony at the Polish presidential palace. Later Duda and Dunlap held a private meeting to discuss bilateral relations, cooperation opportunities and issues of mutual interest, state news agency PAP reported.

Dunlap also laid a wreath at Warsaw's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honour the heroes who have sacrificed their lives for Poland's freedom and independence, the Polish President's Office said.

During Monday's meeting, Duda expressed gratitude to the Knights of Malta for their support to Ukraine during Russia's aggression against the country, according to the Polish President's Office.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, starting the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II.

Monday is day 754 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.

(gs)

Source: IAR, PAP, prezydent.pl