Jorge Carlos Fonseca, President of the Republic of Cape Verde, was received by Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre del Tempio di Sanguinetto in the Magistral Villa on 2nd July.

After the presentation of the respective delegations and a tour of the gardens and villa, the talks focussed on intensifying their bilateral relations. The Grand Master illustrated the points of similarity between the Order of Malta and Cape Verde, while the President described his country’s commitment in diplomacy with the aim of consolidating its relations through dialogue. The President then expressed the hope that his visit could take relations with the Order to a higher level.

An insular state in West Africa, where migrations and cultural exchanges are part of its DNA, Cape Verde has gone from being a country of emigration to one of immigration.  During the talks, Jorge Carlos Fonseca stressed that “Cape Verde was open to immigration, but it was also important that this phenomenon be regulated without forgetting the aspect of dignity and respect of human rights”.

Also discussed was the significance of the presidency of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) that Cape Verde will take over on 17th July for a two-year term. The Sovereign Order of Malta’s ambassador in Lisbon has been an accredited representative to the CPLP since 2010.

Cape Verde and the Sovereign Order of Malta have entertained diplomatic relations since 1996.