On 12th November 2025, the Honorary Consulate of San Marino in London organised the award ceremony for the newest Cavaglieri dell'Ordine di Sant'Agata. The ceremony was presided over by the Consul, Grand Cav Uff Prof Maurizio Bragagni Esq OBE, and graced by the presence of Dr Paolo Rondelli, former Captain Regent of the Republic of San Marino, Grand Cav Uff Dr Francesco Bongarrà, Ambassador a Large of the Republic of San Marino, members of the Diplomatic Corps and many other Knights of the Order of St Agatha.
At the beginning of the ceremony, the national anthems were honoured. In his opening remarks, Consul Bragagni mentioned that the Order of Saint Agatha is reserved for foreign individuals who exemplify service, goodwill, and contributions to the welfare of San Marino and its people. Such a recognition is therefore far more than a ceremonial gesture; it is an affirmation of purposeful diplomatic engagement.
The ceremony was both refreshing and inspiring, as it celebrated moments that reaffirm the enduring value of diplomacy.
The ceremony continued with the conferral of the distinguished title of Knight of the Order of Saint Agatha upon Il Dott Domenico Bellantone, Consul General of Italy in the United Kingdom. Awarded by the Republic of San Marino, this honour recognises not only his professional commitment but also his personal dedication to strengthening one of Europe’s most longstanding and amicable relationships.
Over recent years, Cav Bellantone has played a quiet yet pivotal role in deepening the already excellent cooperation between Italy and San Marino. His work has helped support smoother coordination across cultural, administrative, and community initiatives, many of which directly benefit Sammarinese citizens living, working, or studying in the United Kingdom. Whether navigating the shifting landscape following the UK’s departure from the European Union or promoting constructive dialogue among the Italian, Sammarinese, and British institutions, he has demonstrated a rare blend of attentiveness and strategic acumen.
His efforts have also extended beyond formal diplomacy. For the Sammarinese community in the UK, Bellantone has been a reliable point of support, facilitating consular assistance, promoting cultural visibility, and ensuring that the unique identity and needs of this small but vibrant community are never overlooked.
Wendy Mead OBE, newly appointed to the Order of Saint Agatha, has long distinguished herself as a vital advocate for closer cooperation between the Republic of San Marino and the City of London. Her commitment was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, which continued to affect San Marino through 2021. At a time when global supply chains faltered and international assistance was uncertain, Mrs Mead provided critical support and resources that proved instrumental in helping the Republic manage the crisis. Her contributions, strategically designed, compassionately implemented, and aligned with the immediate needs of a small nation under immense pressure, bolstered San Marino’s public-health response and resilience.
Beyond crisis response, Cav Wendy Mead OBE has been an unwavering supporter of San Marino’s cultural and charitable presence in London. Her longstanding involvement in the Consulate’s philanthropic initiatives has helped expand their reach and effectiveness, underscoring her dedication to fostering international goodwill. Equally significant is her tireless promotion of San Marino’s rich history and traditions at public events across the capital, efforts that have elevated the Republic’s profile within the City of London and deepened its ties with key civic and cultural institutions.
Another new Knight was Cav Aris Matthaiou, who received the Order of Saint Agatha as a key contributor to the strengthening of bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and the Republic of San Marino, particularly in the realm of academic cooperation. Through his vision and persistent engagement, he has played an instrumental role in fostering closer collaboration between leading British universities and the University of San Marino. His efforts have opened new pathways for joint research, academic exchanges, and institutional partnerships, ensuring that San Marino’s higher-education sector is increasingly connected to international networks of innovation and excellence. This recognition by San Marino’s system of honour highlights not only the strategic importance of his work but also the sincerity and dedication behind it.
Cav Matthaiou’s contribution extends beyond institutional agreements. His proactive support for academic events, cross-cultural initiatives, and opportunities for intellectual exchange has significantly enriched San Marino’s global academic engagement. Through his leadership, bridge-building, and unwavering commitment to international cooperation, Cav Matthaiou has strengthened one of the most forward-looking dimensions of the relationship between the two countries, making him a truly deserving recipient of this distinguished honour.
As the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of San Marino in London, we proudly celebrate the exceptional individuals whose dedication has strengthened our nation’s ties abroad and enriched the lives of our citizens. The honours bestowed upon Consul General Cav Domenico Bellantone, Cav Wendy Mead OBE, and Cav Aris Matthaiou reflect not only their personal excellence but also the spirit of collaboration, solidarity, and cultural exchange that defines San Marino’s relationship with the United Kingdom. Their contributions, spanning diplomacy, public health, philanthropy, and academic cooperation, demonstrate the profound impact that committed partners can have on a small republic with a global outlook.
We extend our deepest gratitude to each of them and look forward to building on this foundation of friendship and shared purpose in the years to come.
