Monaco takes the helm at Council of Europe in Strasbourg
By Zak Jackson, MonacoViews Editorial
The Principality has launched its Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, marking the occasion with ceremonies and cultural events in Strasbourg.
Monaco has formally assumed the Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, with the launch day held in Strasbourg on Wednesday 27 May. The handover represents a significant moment in the Principality's diplomatic calendar, placing Monaco at the head of one of Europe's foremost intergovernmental institutions for the duration of its term.
The day opened with a bilateral meeting between Monaco's representatives and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, before a series of public ceremonies on the esplanade of the Council's headquarters. A Strasbourg tram was unveiled in the colours of Monaco's Presidency, giving the city's public transport network an unmistakable Monegasque identity for the coming months.
Cultural diplomacy featured prominently throughout the day. Stella Almondo, a young Monegasque pianist, performed in the Foyer of the Council of Europe building, while La Palladienne, the Principality's folk ensemble, gave a further performance on the Place de la Mairie de Strasbourg. The combination of institutional ceremony and artistic showcase reflected Monaco's broader approach to its European engagement.