Order of Malta France honours the Unknown Soldier
October 13, 2026
The Grand Master in Argentina meeting with President Javier Milei
October 28, 2026
Dublin, 2 October 2026
Order of Malta Ireland was pleased to host a conference entitled “Strengthening Cross-Border Emergency Medical Services – Strategic Cooperation for a Resilient Europe” at the Order of Malta Conference Centre, Clyde Road, Dublin, on 2 October 2026.
Held against the backdrop of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the conference brought together perspectives on emergency medical response, humanitarian assistance and European cooperation, examining how countries can work more effectively together when responding to major emergencies and disasters.
A central theme was the concept of “No Roaming” for emergency medical services — the proposition that qualified medical personnel, equipment and emergency assistance should be capable of crossing European borders without unnecessary administrative or regulatory delays.
The engaging discussions led by Cmdr. Brian Coote the National Director of the Order of Malta Ambulance Corp in Ireland and Mr Ivo Graziani, Secretary General at Malteser International resulted in a series of practical policy recommendations, including the development of a European EMS Capability Framework, improved mutual recognition of professional qualifications, clearer cross-border command arrangements, common communications standards and expanded joint training and exercises.
The resulting Proceedings Report sets out seven recommendations and a proposed implementation roadmap aimed at strengthening Europe’s collective emergency preparedness and resilience. The conference was chaired by Mr. Patrick Downes.
Order of Malta Ireland extends its sincere appreciation to all our speakers for their expertise and thoughtful contributions, and to everyone who attended and participated in the discussions. Their engagement helped make the conference a constructive contribution to the continuing European dialogue on emergency medical cooperation.
The conference also reaffirmed the Order of Malta’s longstanding and fundamental commitment to humanitarian service, international cooperation and the protection of those most in need, the sick and the poor.
The full Conference Proceedings Report, including the principal conclusions, policy recommendations and proposed next steps, is attached below for information and further consideration.
Strengthening Cross-Border Emergency Medical Services – Proceedings Report, 2 October 2026.
