H.S.H. the Prince Albert II's trip in Antartic
On January 5th 2009, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco is set to embark on an Antarctic expedition at the invitation of scientists.
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Following his 2006 trip to the North Pole, the voyage marks HSH Prince Albert's ongoing commitment to the campaign to preserve the planet and prevent climate change. It is also part of a family tradition of great sensitivity to polar issues. Over 100 years ago, Prince Albert I of Monaco was one of the first prominent international political figures to travel to the Artic.
Like that of his great-great-grandfather, HSH Prince Albert II's expedition has a double objective.
The first is to witness, at first hand, the situation in the Antarctic, currently threatened by global warming. To this effect, he will be visiting scientific observation posts at 26 stations representing 18 countries and meeting with eminent researchers to obtain a complete, exhaustive view of the situation in the field.
The second objective of the trip is to raise public awareness of the fate of the poles. With today's international news dominated by more immediate dramatic events, attention is rarely paid to those deserted stretches of land far away. We should nevertheless be aware of their key importance to the earth's future.
At a time when the prospect of exploiting the resources of the poles is increasingly alluring to some, their preservation is of increasingly strategic importance and should be a rallying cry for the international community as a whole.
Monaco is a country which is directly dependent on climate change. HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco is reigning sovereign of a State which, on May 31st 2008 became the 47th State party of the Antarctic treaty. He firmly intends to drive home the message that the protection of our planet, in particular the Antarctic concerns all nations and peoples of the world.
He will also confirm Monaco's tireless commitment to a more efficient, responsible collective management of natural resources, our only solution faced with a worsening climate and endangerment of the conditions on which the very survival of humanity itself depends.

THE STATIONS LIST
From January 5th to 8th, 2009
Island of King-George:
Frei (Chile)
Escudero (Chile)
Bellinghausen (Russia)
Great Wall (China)
Artigas (Uruguay)
King Sejong (South Korea)
Commandante Ferraz (Brazil)
Arctowski (Poland)
Bransfield Strait :
O'Higgins (Chile)
Arturo Prat (Chile)
Ohridiski (Bulgaria)
Juan Carlos Primero (Spain)
From january 10th to 12th, 2009
Patriot Hills (attached to the USA)
From January 14th to 16th, 2009
Amundsen Scott (The USA)
Mc Murdo (The USA)
Scott Base (New Zealand)
From January 16th to 18th, 2009
Concordia (France-Italy)
Vostok (Russia)
From january 18th to 21st, 2009
Davis (Australia)
Progress (Russia)
Racovita (Romania)
Zhongshan (China)
Princess Elisabeth (Belgium)
Novolazarevskaya (Russia)
Maitri (India)
Troll (Norway)
26 stations
18 countries

INTERNATIONAL POLAR YEARS & IPY 2007-2008
International Polar Year is a major scientific event which occurs approximately once every 50 years.
The first took place in 1882-1883. It was inspired by a first successful international collaboration in 1874-1875 between France, the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States to observe the transit of Venus in the subantarctic islands. The Austrian explorer and geo-physicist Karl Weyprecht mooted the idea of organising an International Polar Year to study geophysical and astronomical phenomena. Twelve countries agreed to organise fifteen simultaneous expeditions, thirteen to the Arctic and two to the Antarctic (South Georgia and Tierra del Fuego).
One of the objectives was to observe the transit of Venus once again (December 6th 1882). After this new success, the 1895 London International Physics Congress decided to organise a polar year once every 50 years.
The second IPY was launched at the initiative of the World Meteorological Organization in 1932-1933 to study the planetary implications of the newly-discovered jet-streams. Over 40 countries took part and major progress was made in the fields of meteorology, geomagnetism, atmospheric sciences and the mapping of ionospheric phenomena. 114 observation stations were set up in the Arctic and the first station inside the Antarctic was established by the American Admiral Byrd who spent winter there alone on the Ross ice platform. France set up a winter station at Scoresby Sund in Greenland.
The most recent IPY took place during International Geophysical Year 1957-58 involving 61 countries. It was initiated by three upper atmosphere physicians: Lloyd Berkner, Sydney Chapman and Marcel Nicollet.
Their aim was to take scientific advantage of the radars developed during World War II and subsequent satellites during a year of exceptional solar activity. Therefore, an international research programme was established to collect data on the upper atmosphere, ice cap and continental drift, as well as the volumes of fresh water locked into the Antarctica ice, seismology and meteorology. 45 research stations were set up in Antarctica and on the subantarctic islands.
In IPY itself the physician Van Allen demonstrated that solar wind particles are channelled into polar regions by the lines of the magnetic force field, the impact of these high energy particles with our atmosphere resulting in the formation of the southern or northern lights.
International Polar Year 2007-2008 will therefore be a very important event. At a time which, in the light of climate change, is particularly critical for the history of the earth, the key objective of IPY will be to gain a better understanding of the contribution of the Polar Regions to global balances via an intensive research campaign.
IPY is supported by over 60 countries and nearly twenty international research organisations, including the International Council for Science (ICSU) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). It is directed by the British Antarctic Survey in Cambridge headed by Prof Chris Rapley. In France, IPY is organised by the Académie des sciences and the IPEV, chaired by Claude Lorius and Yves Frénot. Over 200 research projects have been selected.
Six main themes have been identified:
- Status report: determination of the current environmental situation in the Polar Regions. What is the status of oceanic circulation and composition at high latitudes? How do polar ecosystems vary over space and time? To what extent can said variations be attributed to the impacts of man? How is the climate changing?
- Change over time: Quantification and comprehension of past environmental and social natural change in the Polar Regions, refinement of forecasts for future changes. How does bio-diversity in Polar Regions respond to long-term climactic changes? How does the planet respond to successive glacial cycles? Which factors are responsible for the cooling of Polar Regions?
- Planetary interactions: better interpretation of existing relations and interactions between Polar Regions and the rest of the globe. What role do the Polar Regions play in the global carbon cycle? How stable are the large glacial masses and what is their impact on sea levels? What are the North-South interconnections?
- New frontiers: study of the limits of science in the Polar Regions. What are the characteristics of deep oceans and sub-glacial ecosystems?
- Privileged position: use of Polar Regions to create observatories to study the sun and cosmos from earth.
- Human dimension: sustainability of circumpolar societies.
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National Day 2008

 

 

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON THE ARCTIC: AN OBSERVATORY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE"

 The international conference on “the Arctic: an observatory for environmental change," jointly organized by the French presidency of the European Union and the Principality of Monaco, has just ended. Ministers and politicians from European countries, countries of the Arctic Council and countries that conduct scientific research in the Arctic, scientific experts, representatives of European institutions and international organizations attended, on 9th and 10th November.Under the French presidency of the European Union, Jean-Louis Borloo, Minister of State, Minister of Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development and Urban Planning, made climate change one of his top priorities. The Arctic region holds a special place in understanding climate. Its protection is a commitment of the Grenelle Environment. "The Arctic is both the witness and victim of pollution. We can never thank enough the international scientific community for its 30 years of research on the Iceland glaciers and Arctic and Antarctic glaciers, which have proved scientifically and unquestionably the most fundamental reality: the concentration of methane and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has never been higher than today. And His Serene Highness Prince Albert II added: "Given the potential risks, we must act. The importance of resources involved will only worsen the situation in the years ahead. That is why a permanent international solution must be found as soon as possible taking into account the interests of all of us. " During the conference, scientists reiterated their concern, not only with regard to the regional effects of the recent ice-floe summer melting, but also about the global impact of these changes, including consequences on the rise of the average livel of global sea .Conference participants reaffirmed the need to act collectively to address these issues and welcomed the results of international scientific cooperation during the International Polar Year which were presented at the conference, calling for development and multiplication work.The goal is to work to establish a framework for coordination, allowing the harmonization and optimization of scientific observations collected in the Arctic, based on the recommendations of the Arctic Council and the momentum by the Polar Consortium Europe. All participants recognized the essential contribution made by research and monitoring comments on the long-term to the understanding and predicting environmental change and the Arctic climate, including biodiversity and spread and contamination of chemicals, which provide as much information as possible to inform policy making at national and international levels.The ministers, the representatives of European institutions and international organizations attending the Conference adopted a final declaration accordng to which they are committed to advance these ambitions in the regional and international forums."The French Presidency of the Council of the European Union will ensure the promotion of this initiative and will pass it to the Czech and Swedish presidencies under the program of 3 presidencies of the European Union Council (second half 2008-end 2009 ) "concluded Jean-Louis Borloo.

 

 

 
 
 

 

 

CONGRATULATIONS MESSAGE FROM PRINCE ALBERT II TO MR. BARACK OBAMA, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

 
H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco followed the American presidential campaign with great interest.
In the Prince’ s opinion, Barack Obama’s victory is indisputably a turning point that will mark the history of the United States of America, but even more, it is the birth of tremendous hope.
Aware of his extraordinary personality, his charisma, his intelligence and his talent as a speaker, the Prince foresees that the new governmental regime will be marked by his humanism.
This is the letter H.S.H. has sent to Barack Obama.
“After an extraordinary path that has captivated the whole world, you have just entered the history book of the United States of America.
You embody at the highest level the values which the American people recognise in themselves.
The task with which you have now been entrusted is equal to the tremendous hope you have created not only in your country but even beyond its borders.
I am convinced that thanks to your influence, your courage and your humanism, you will be able to bring greatness to America during these times of such uncertainty.
At this historical moment, I would like to express, on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Monaco, my warmest congratulations and sincerest wishes for success in the accomplishment of the high responsibilities that fall upon you.”

 

HSH Prince Albert II at the XIIth Francophone Summit
HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco was in Québec from 17 to 19 October 2008
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On His arrival, the Sovereign Prince attended the launch of the Canadian branch of His Foundation at the National Assembly of Québec, in the presence of Line Beauchamp, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Parks. On this occasion, the Foundation signed an agreement with the government of Quebec for a partnership bearing on two projects: the first involving creation of an Atlas of ‘hotspots' for biodiversity in Northern Quebec; the second entailing the support of an initiative for an awareness campaign on environmental protection targeting several countries in the North and South.
In the late afternoon, there was the opening ceremony for the XIIth Francophone Summit.
In the evening, a dinner was offered by the Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper and Ms Laureen Teskey Harper, at the Manoir Montmorency.
In the late afternoon, there was the opening ceremony for the XIIth Francophone Summit.
In the evening, a dinner was offered by the Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper and Ms Laureen Teskey Harper, at the Manoir Montmorency.
On Saturday 18 October, HSH the Prince spoke in the context of a round table on the environment. He emphasized: “It is by closely combining energy and talent and gathering peoples and States around common causes that we will be able to trigger a revolution in practices and mentalities, the only way we can hope to save our planet. To this end, the Principality of Monaco intends to play a federative part, in particular by hosting international meetings, at both the State level and that of civil society.” He then added: “If we succeed in progressing by bringing together developed countries faced with the contradictions of consumerism and Southern countries confronted with those of development, then everything will become possible.”
He concluded his speech by stating: “More than ever, La Francophonie must continue sending the world a message of responsibility, solidarity and hope: hope for more harmonious globalization that is fairer and more respectful of common goods and values that make for the greatness of life on Earth and its very possibility.”
At the end of the afternoon, another partnership was signed with the International Organization of La Francophonie in the presence of its Secretary General, His Excellency Abdou Diouf. This programme involves water conservation in four sub-Saharan African countries: Senegal, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.
In conclusion, Prince Albert declared: “More than ever, in a world shaken by serious crises, solidarity must be at the heart of all our actions.”
The day ended with a dinner offered by the Prime Minister of Québec, Jean Charest and his wife, Michèle Dionne, at the Château Frontenac.
Before returning to the Principality, on Sunday 19 October, the Sovereign Prince participated in a breakfast offered by the Prime Minister of New Brunswick.
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H.S.H. PRINCE ALBERT II ATTENDED

THE WORLD CONGRESS

OF THE WORLD UNION FOR NATURE

 
H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco went to Barcelona from 5th to 7th October to attend The World Conservation Congress of IUCN, where he was welcomed by H.R.H. Prince Felipe of Spain. On 6th October, during the afternoon, the Sovereign, after visiting the Pavilion "Oceans" which promotes conservation of the seas in the world, took part at the dinner gave in honour of all the Presidents of the Foundations for the Conservation of Marine and jointly organized by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and IUCN. On this occasion, His Serene Highness Sovereign Prince stressed "This is for me one of my deepest belief, issued from over a century of family tradition: my great-great-grandfather Albert 1st was a pioneer of oceanography and my father mobilized to safeguard the Mediterranean, from the 1970s. In my turn, I keep fighting their struggle. A battle eternally unfinished”. On 7th October on the occasion of the conference organized to present the work of the Arctic Aspen Institute, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II said: "warming and rising sea levels, pollution, threats to biodiversity: in the Arctic more than elsewhere, our planet’s troubles are visible to the naked eye, we can perceive them on the human scale”. He added "it is essential that we do everything we can to provide scientists with the conditions for effective work in the Arctic: a safety place and incontaminated material”. He concluded his speech by saying: "I hope that the international community exercise particular vigilance in the management and organization of everything relating to poles, and the Arctic in particular. This is the meaning of the resolution which UNEP adopted this year, to which my Foundation is honored to have actively contributed”.
 

 

H.S.H. PRINCE ALBERT II AND JEAN-LOUIS BORLOO INAUGURATED THE NEW TER

 
Train and presided over a convention’signature to advantage of the Mercantour National park and Maritime Alps.Friday September 19th in late morning, H.S.H. Prince Albert II inaugurated the first of five TER trains financed by Monaco in the presence of Mr. Jean-Louis Borloo, Secretary of State, Ecology, Energy, sustainable Development and land settlement Minister of the French Republic, Mrs Stefania Prestigiacomo, the Italian Environment Minister, Mr Michel Vauzelle, Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur Region’s President, Mr Jean-Pierre Farandou, SNCF Delegate Chief executive officer and many monegasque, french and italan personalities.
 

 H.S.H THE SOVEREIGN PRINCE MEETS MONEGASQUE YOUTH

 
On Monday September 15th, the Economic and Social Council brought together 36 young people, chosen from the three secondary schools of Monaco. They exsposed their projects to H.S.H. Prince Albert II.In one hour and a half, 8 speakers in groups of two presented the adopted four wishes and discussed them with H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince. He said: “You are full of energy, impatience and desires, It is you who brought the promise of the future. It is you who discussed about a project on an environmental plan which consists in proposing an ecological methodology to every events organization in Monaco. They also presented a project about improved bus, a project on industrial tourism and another one on the extension of sharing transports in Monaco. You represent the strength of innovation and action”. At the end of the debate, a cocktail was served, during which young people have continued their talk, in an informal way, with H.S.H. Prince Albert II.
They deeply appreciated this exchange. "This is really something for us, and it proves that he is interested in our opinion. This also shows that our point of view is relevant.
 

 

Interview of H.S.H. Prince Albert II
 
Before attending the opening ceremony, Prince Albert II of Monaco gives Reuters his first impressions of these Olympic Games. A member of the IOC, he is attending his twelfth Olympic Games after having participated in the bobsleigh event five times between 1988 and 2002.
 
Reuters: A few hours before the opening ceremony, what are you feeling?
Prince Albert: Impatient, enthusiastic and impressed! Before the ceremony, I always experience the same impatience, eager for it to begin. I'm approaching my tenth attendance at the Olympics with the same enthusiasm, like a child waiting for Christmas.
 
Reuters: And, impressed?
Prince Albert II: Impressed by the level of organisation, the capacity for reactivity, their involvement, the care taken over every small detail and their enormous Olympic sites! The Chinese already have all the elements in hand to achieve a benchmark games. It will stand out in the history of the Olympics.
 
Reuters: But at every games, we are told “these are the best Games in history”?
Prince Albert II: But here, everyone is agreed even before the opening ceremony! Already, the Chinese organisation is universally recognised by athletes, coaches and even journalists. Already, it is completely unprecedented. For example, the Olympic village has unanimously agreed. Until now, I had never truly heard a village do so.
 
Reuters: Before the events have even started, what has China already won?
Prince Albert II: Everyone arrived with preconceived notions, clichés and beliefs. Some even arrived apprehensive, critical, sceptical and cautious to a country that in fact, they do not know. In one week, China has already earned our respect. And this respect should lead to dialogue, to trying to understand each other better, trying to know each other better and better understanding of our respective mentalities and cultures. China will leave us a great legacy. From today, it starts its ultimate test in order to become a full member of the international community.
 
Reuters: And the Olympic movement, what has it already won?
Prince Albert II: In return, Olympism will be a great educational and cultural heritage for China. The Games will help this great world power to open up more to the world, to move even further towards progress. For now, China has proved that the Olympic movement can no longer ignore it as a country capable of organising such an event. Four hundred million Chinese children received lessons in Olympism. Thus filled with this education and this Olympic spirit, they will inevitably have a different view of us.
 
Reuters: You already seem persuaded that China will have a successful Games?
Prince Albert II: As I have said for several months, let us not pass judgement before the first race is run. Let the Games take place. But at the moment, they have started well.
 
Reuters: During the Olympic Games, what is the most important privilege that your dual status of Prince and member of the IOC gives you?
Prince Albert: To have access to the training sites. I have always loved being behind the scenes where everything is happening, where you meet the people in the background who are so much part of an organisation's success.
 
Reuters: Like a medal, what is the flip side of this dual status?
Prince Albert: It prevents me from getting lost in the crowd, absorbing its enthusiasm, sharing and enjoying certain emotions with it. Once in my life, I would like to experience a few days at the Games anonymously.
 
Reuters: If tomorrow you had the right to a single entrance ticket, which one would you choose?
Prince Albert: Paradoxically, since I would like to see everything, anything! I am as enthusiastic about going to watch a badminton match as the final of the 100m freestyle swimming. Me, I can go and see Cameroon against Singapore in field hockey!
 
Reuters: But, which events do you not want to miss?
Prince Albert: Above all, I do not want to miss a single moment of the performances by the five Monegasque athletes involved. I would regret that for the rest of my life. Then, I'll take a ticket to any diving, athletics, shooting or rowing final. Everything is a bonus, a highlight not to be missed. And if I manage to see Michael Phelps' eight gold medals, that would be truly fabulous.
 
Reuters: And if you were an Olympic gold medal, which athlete would you like to hang around the neck of?
Prince Albert II: If one day it were to happen to a Monegasque athlete, I would really like to be that one.
 

 

H.S.H. Prince Albert’s official visit to Mongolia
A successful cooperation between the two countries
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H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco visited Mongolia where he was welcomed by H.E. Mrs Sanjaasurengiin OYUN, Mongolian Foreign Affairs Minister and H.E. Mr Radnaabazar ALTANGEREL, Mongolian Ambassador to the Principality of Monaco.
On his arrival, the Sovereign Prince spoke with the Mongolian President Nambaryn ENKHBAYAR and signed an Agreement on Cultural Cooperation between the Mongolian government and the government of the Principality of Monaco.
He then met H.E. Mr Danzan LUNDEEJANTSAN, President of the State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia, then the Prime Minister of Mongolia, H.E. Mr Sanjaagiin BAYAR.
Following these meetings, he visited the Mongolian Institute of Archaeological Studies as well as its museum in front of which stands the stele brought back from Arkhangai province that the Prince inaugurated.
In the evening, a dinner was given by H.E. Mr Nambaryn Enkhbayar at the “Khatan Tuul” Palace. Prince Albert II gave a speech in which he paid “tribute to Mongolia and its people”. He emphasised their “spirit of openness” and saluted the initiative of the President for the environment protection and sustainable development.
H.S.H. Prince Albert II also confirmed “that the scientific and cultural cooperation between the Mongolian Academy of Sciences - Institute of Archaeology and the Monaco Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology is fruitful and reinforces the interest that our countries have”. Finally, he expressed his delight about the new diplomatic relations and the burgeoning friendship between Mongolia and Monaco.
On August 23rd, the Sovereign Prince visited the Zayiin Gegeen Buddhist Monastery at Tsetserleg, where He was welcomed by Mr Jigmedtseden KHURELSUKH, Governor of Arkhangai Province.
Late morning, the Prince Albert II discovered the archaeological site of Tsatsiin Ereg. On this occasion He highlighted that by “contributing modestly to your archaeological research the Principality of Monaco has the great privilege of getting closer to your culture, your way of considering space and time”.
This trip ended with a lunch at the tourist camp of Tamir and the festival of Naadam.
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One million dollars for Cairo’s Children’s Cancer Hospital

 
On Friday the 11th of July, after opening the exhibition “Queens of Egypt”, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II and Mrs Suzanne Moubarak, Egypt’s First Lady, presided over a charity gala dinner in the Empire Room at the Hotel de Paris, an initiative sponsored by the Grimaldi Forum and the Egyptian Ambassador to France.
The evening raised one million dollars for a project close to the heart of President Moubarak’s wife: the fight against cancer in children. The construction of the new children’s hospital in the capital, Cairo, was entirely funded by donors and represents the pride of this great humanitarian achievement born from the will of local institutions. The race, religion or social status of the patients is not important but the treatment and moral support is indispensable for children and their families hit by this desease.
 
The evening was also enhanced by the presence of Mrs Rafic Hariri, widow of the Lebanese Premier and the attendance of 400 other political, cultural and financial personalities from both sides of the Mediterranean. During a bingo game that featured many covetable prizes, all demonstrated their generosity at this extraordinary gala evening.
 
For Mrs Moubarak, who already organizes numerous humanitarian and charitable events to enhance the living conditions of her native Egypt, the announcement of the amount raised left her breathless with emotion and she was fulsome in her praise of the Principality of Monaco and its Sovereign who is always ready to embrace worthy humanitarian and charitable causes.

 

Official Visit by HSH Prince Albert II to Austria
The official visit by Prince Albert II of Monaco to Vienna began this morning with a meeting with the Federal Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer.
 
In this very convivial meeting, European events were evoked, as was the economic situation of both the Principality and Austria, which enjoy strong development of service activities and tourism.
The Ruling Prince then met the Federal President Heinz Fischer. Both were pleased with the quality of relations between the two states and reviewed topics of common interest to them. This exchange demonstrated perfect convergence of views between the two countries, in particular Monaco's approval of the Mediterranean Union project.
The Prince presided over a lunch held in his honour by Christian Dorda, Honorary Consul of Monaco in Vienna, in the presence of diplomatic, economic and cultural personalities.
Franck Biancheri, Government Counsellor for External Relations and International Economic and Financial Affairs, spoke with Hans Winkler, State Secretary in the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs. They discussed the need for small States to ensure that their specificities are taken into consideration in European construction.
The day ended with a working meeting for the Ruling Prince and His delegation with Wilhelm Molterer, Vice Chancellor and Minister of Finance, in which the similarity of approaches between the Principality and Austria was confirmed on economic and financial matters, tax issues in particular.

 

HSH Prince Albert II in Saragossa for the ‘Zaragoza 2008’ International Exhibition
For National Monegasque Day, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco went to Saragossa to visit the ‘Zaragoza 2008’ International Exhibition around the theme ‘Water and sustainable development’.
HSH the Ruling Prince was greeted by Beatriz Corredor, the Spanish Housing Minister, and Dr Emilio Fernández-Castaño, Curator of the Exhibition, at the Convention Centre Auditorium.
In the late morning, the Ruling Prince visited the Pavilions of Monaco, France and Spain. After the visit, He was invited to a lunch organized by the Spanish authorities.
In the afternoon, at the ‘Water Tribune' Pavilion, an MoU was signed between the Albert II Foundation, the ONE DROP Foundation and its partners, RBC and Oxfam, to implement a three-year project for access to drinking water in Honduras.
In the evening, the Prince attended a performance by the Ballets de Monte-Carlo followed by a dinner in the presence of Spanish personalities.

HSH Prince Albert II at the inaugural summit of the Union for the Mediterranean
On Sunday morning, HSH Prince Albert II met with Jean-Claude Juncker, Prime Minister of Luxembourg
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The conversation bore in particular on the project of the Union for the Mediterranean, the Principality's financial and economic development and exchanges in the area of international cooperation. They were very pleased with the convergence of view on these issues.
Beforehand, HSH the Ruling Prince spoke with Ingrid Betancourt. The Prince told her His joy at the prospect of welcoming her to the Principality.
In the afternoon, Prince Albert II participated in the first Summit of Heads of State and Government to launch the Union for the Mediterranean at the Grand Palais in Paris.
After introductory speeches by the first co-presidents of the UPM, Nicolas Sarkozy and Hosni Moubarak, the 44 States present discussed the different projects. In the context of these exchanges, the Ruling Prince emphasized that “my country will be an active member, determined and ready to support and contribute to this partnership I deem crucial.”
HSH the Prince then recalled with force and gravity that “the Mediterranean is our common heritage and this heritage is in danger.” He added that “it is our imperative duty to save it.”
The Prince offered to “place in the service of this cause the Principality's scientific resources and hospitality”.
The day ended with a dinner honouring the Heads of State and Government and other Heads of Delegations.
 
 

 

The new exploratory ship

from Silversea Cruises is dedicated

to his Royal Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco. 

An unforgettable morning with a launch in the grandest of styles, that is of the new ship from Silversea Cruises: the ship Prince Albert II. Present at the event was HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. The ship was blessed and officiated by Mons. Gallo, as is the tradition, thus opening a new era in exploratory cruising: adventure, elegance and environmental education . 
Monaco, 3rd June, 2008:  This morning, in the heart of Monte Carlo, saw an ecceptional baptism, that of the new explorer cruiser from Silversea Cruises, named Prince Albert II, in the presence of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. As is the grand tradition the boat was blessed by Mons. Gallo, Vatican Prelate. 
The public, after having listened attentively to the ceremony, toasted with euphoria the key moment of the event: the cutting of the ribbon (red and white, the heraldic colour of the Grimaldi family) by HSH Prince Albert II.
This ceremony sees the dawning of a new era in nautical exploration, the combination of adventure, luxury and environmental consideration...
The words of Manfred Lefebvre, chairman of Silversea Cruises, that underlined the importance of the event “this is a great day for Silversea, a day of pride and sentiment. We are truly honoured that our new explorer liner carries the name ‘HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco’ and we hope that his environmental sensibilities will prove an example to all who sail in her.”
Amerigo Perasso, President & CEO of Silversea Cruises added “It is a great privilege that HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco is here with us today and that our ship bears his name. We wish that his example as an intrepid explorer always responsible for the environment, will guide and inspire out trips, transforming this mode of transport into an educative experience to deepen our knowledge and further our understanding of different cultures as well as the planet on which we all live.  Every voyage will see a number of teachers and experts who will offer to share their expertise in the tutelage of the environment, culture and history of the regions to be visited on the itinerary”
After this important refit the ship Prince Albert II now offers various suites which are amongst the largest in the market. Inside there are more than 20 premium range suites for the more demanding traveller complete with double balconies in the French style or private verandas. All the 66 suites are furnished the best possible taste with marble bathrooms.
The Silversea liner will be ready for her first voyage on the 12 June from London to inaugurate the first season which consists of series of Polar voyages that last from 10 to 21 days.
The first stop is the Arctic Circle, Svalbard Isles, Iceland and Greenland, Then the liner cruises to South America where it will be based for voyages to the southern poles during Autumn and Winter
Silversea is a member of the “Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators” (AECO)association, for whom the objective is to manage liner tours in the most environmentally sensitive way possible. The society adheres to the “International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators” (IAATO) an important organization that promotes and explains ways of making ocean voyages secure and ecologically responsible in the Antarctic. It will be the remit of Silversea to adopt and apply these guidelines for all the destinations of the ship  Prince Albert II.

ALBERT II AND NICOLAS SARKOZY

 

THE MEDITERRANEAN UNION WITH THE PRINCIPALITY OF MONACO

 
 
Five hours! That is the time during which the President of France - Nicolas Sarkozy - was on official visit to Monaco. The President arrived at about 12:00 noon:  initially he had a private meeting with Prince Albert II. The President of France stated that the French-Monegasque agreement signed in 2005 is going to be confirmed : it is made known by a statement issued by the Palace Officials. This agreement deals with the future of the two states, offering a broader space to the Principality: shared cooperation in terms of administrative and  judicial matters as well as investment plans.  Following this private talk, the two Chiefs went to the Oceanographic Museum for a short debate about the Artic and the Mediterranean. President Nicolas Sarkozy invited Prince Albert II to Paris next July 13th on occasion of a summit on the Mediterranean Union. This Union is taken as necessary by both of them in order to approach  ecological issues related to certain areas with full responsibility, also in view of the development and reconciliation of all of its members. In the end, the Sovereign announced that "Monaco is a candidate for the creation of an Artic Observatory bound to centralize and coordinate the research of some areas of the Northern Pole, as main victim of the greenhouse effect".
 
 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMPANY TODAY, MY 30TH BIRTHDAY… WITH ONLY 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE!

 
“I am most touched by your presence here today on the occasion of my 30th birthday party…with 20 years of experience!  I would like to thank you all for coming and for your support and donations to my foundation. I am also very happy to see you all because it shows that you are behind me in my fight to save our precious sea. Our Mediterranean is being gravely damaged and I am attempting to do something about it.
On another charitable note I am sure you are all aware that the Association of the Principality is demonstrating its solidarity with sick children with a photographic exhibition at the Grimaldi Forum of current aid projects and this is a subject that I feel very strongly about. It is fundamental that our youngsters learn, by our example, how to secure their future. Our young people are tomorrow’s protagonists, those who will continue to guide Monaco towards solidarity and generosity and above all the hope of a future world that is more peaceful, more just, more ecological and more united in brotherly love…”
 
The Prince appeared, with Princess Stephanie, Princess Antoinette, his aunt and twenty or so special guests; Monaco residents born on the 14th of March, like his majesty, in the Palace Square in front of a Monaco crowd. Many happy returns to them all! The other Royal family members were in their Marchais Castle near Paris where they celebrated with the Prince at a surprise late night dinner party. This is the reason that they were not with the Prince in Monaco. When the Prince made his speech he was visibly moved by his people’s affection and he thanked them all for their kind wishes and said how happy he was to be living in such a marvellous country where security, fraternity and joy reign. At the end of his speech the celebration became a large garden party where all were united in one big happy Monaco family. Prince Albert sauntered amongst his people, shaking hands and allowing himself to be kissed. He had his photograph taken and “Happy Birthday Your Serene Highness!” was heard from all and sundry.

Prince Albert II: the 14th of March in all simplicity with the Monegasques

 

 TO BE ABLE TO MAKE DECISIONS WITH RESPECT TOWARDS OTHERS. 

 

 

 

The Prince’s 50th birthday is going to be very happy, informal “family” celebration: the Monegasque citizens will meet in the Palace square to join their Prince in celebrating this special occasion..

 

 

A birthday unlike any other is being prepared in the principality. On Friday the 14th of March, Prince Albert II will celebrate his fiftieth birthday, an important milestone in the life of the sovereign, who has reigned for almost three years.. For this very special occasion a “ family” event is being organized. On March 14th between 12 noon and 3 o’clock in the afternoon all the Monegasque people are invited to a reception in the Palace square in honour of the occasion.

 

 

 

As a tribute to the 50th birthday of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco we are publishing part of the long interview granted by His Serene Highness for the first time on the Internet, on the occasion of the Monegasque National Holiday 2007.





Your Serene Highness, what are the reasons why you choose to travel regularly throughout the world?


 

My travels abroad are necessary for my position, they strongly help its development, and the promotion of my image and status on the international scene.


 

Monaco advances at its own pace, that is to say, giving the impression of a certain immobility. Are you going to give it more energy?

 

The rhythm of actions is led and supported by my Government, even if apparent images are not always visible. It is fact necessary to take into account the fact that Monaco rests on a subtle balance, which it is my duty to preserve.


 

What do you think about Mr. Sarkozy’s politics?



 

I wish the President of the French Republic every success in his mission and it will be my pleasure to receive him in Monaco in the very near future, to continue our discussions and the new fervour which together we can give to the excellent relations between the Principality and France. It will also be the occasion to evoke subjects of a common interest, such as the preservation of the environment and the future of the Mediterranean area.

 

 

France has announced a project for a Mediterranean union as Monaco has been implicated for a long time in this theme, Is it your intention to join in this initiative?



 

The Principality by its privileged situation within the Mediterranean basin, aspires to bring together the neighbouring countries. I hope that Monaco’s open position and being a cosmopolitan city/state will favour the establishment of new and fruitful discussions. For many years Monaco has led strong actions in the Mediterranean, particularly the co-operation of the scientific field in the matter of the environmental, humanitarian and geo-political projects.



 

 

Has the project of an extension in the sea been abandoned?


 

Absolutely not. I wanted this project because it is indispensable to the development of the Principality. I follow it personally with great interest and will ensure that the accepted project is a model with regard to respecting the marine environment and that it will bring technical and scientific innovations.




 

 

At this time when the growth of the European economy is failing, how do you explain the flourishing side of the Monegasque economy?

 

The economy of the Principality is prospering, thanks to the efforts of all concerned. The healthy economical situation is the result of a diversified economy. Healthy companies wish to expand, others wish to establish their businesses here. I am delighted with the importance of trading, with the growth of financial and banking activities, the moving ahead of our industrial fabric, of our dynamic tourism professionals, and the quality of shipping.All of these contribute to the development of the economy, guaranteeing social repercussions.

 

Is there still an authority in this country? One gets the impression of a certain slackness.

 

I have my own style for governing; dialogue with and listening to them does not mean curbing a decision. To know how to listen does not mean to be unable to decide. Authority, to me, means knowing how to make decisions with respect towards others.