Prince Albert addresses Council of Europe as Monaco's presidency concludes
By Zak Jackson, MonacoViews Editorial
Prince Albert II spoke at the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly in Strasbourg, marking a significant moment as Monaco completes its first-ever presidency of the Committee of Ministers since joining in 2004.
Prince Albert II visited Strasbourg on 1 October to address the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, a key highlight of Monaco's rotating presidency of the Committee of Ministers. The visit underscored the Principality's diplomatic influence within the continental organisation, with the Sovereign's speech representing a formal culmination of Monaco's six-month tenure at the helm.
Monaco's presidency has been historic—the first since the Principality joined the Council of Europe in 2004. During this period, Monaco has elevated its diplomatic priorities, from human rights protection to environmental cooperation, placing them at the centre of the Council's broader agenda.
The visit followed earlier meetings in Strasbourg between Government Counsellor and Minister of External Relations Isabelle Berro-Amadeï and the Council's leadership, including the Secretary General and Parliamentary Assembly President Petra Bayr. Together, these engagements represent a diplomatic review of Monaco's presidency and its lasting contribution to European cooperation.