On 19 June 2001, in the Magistral Palace in Rome, His Most Eminent Highness, The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Fra’ Andrew Bertie, granted solemn audience to the new Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Brazil, H.E. Oto Agripino Maia, for the presentation of the letters of credence by which he will be accredited to the Sovereign Order.

The Grand Master observed that the Order and Brazil have a close relationship, in part thanks to the presence of the Brazilian Association of the Knights of Malta, which, most especially in recent years, has shown great commitment to its humanitarian works. The new mission will further enhance diplomatic relations, which will support the developing humanitarian and hospitaller activities.