The Prince and Grand Master Fra’ Andrew Bertie welcomed the official visit of the President of the Republic of Nicaragua, Enrique Bonanos Geyer. Also present at the meeting, which took place in Palazzo Magistrale, were the wife of President Geyer, Lila de Bonanos, and the delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Nicaragua, Norman Caldera.

During the talks, in addition to reference made to the excellent relations between the Order and the Nicaraguan government, the President expressed sincere admiration for the humanitarian work that the Order carries out all over the world, and emphasized the significant contributions made in helping the Nicaraguan populace. In the last three years, also thanks to contributions from the American Foundation, the Order of Malta has devolved considerable sums of money and medicines – primarily for treating cancer – in addition to clothing and toys, to the people of Nicaragua.

Since 1990, the Order of Malta has assisted the Saint Damian Association in Nicaragua, which is dedicated to treating lepers: the construction and furnishing of this center represents an additional important result achieved thanks to donations received from the Order.

The President of Nicaragua also spoke of the developments taking place in his country, in particular with reference to democracy, human rights and peace.

Furthermore, the President expressed the wish that the Grand Master make an official visit to Nicaragua, which could coincide with the forthcoming Latin American meeting of the Order of Malta.