Monaco’s 20 years of commitment to UN - Ban Ki-moon visit

In advance of the 20th anniversary of Monaco joining the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, the Secretary General of the UN, visited the Principality on 3 April.

In his speech Mr Ban praised Monaco and Prince Albert II “You are helping to lead the world into a sustainable 21st century”. He continued by complimenting the Prince and his Foundation for their work on biodiversity, water and the fight against climate change, and the policies implemented in Monaco, including efforts to encourage electric vehicles, “are pointing the way towards a low-carbon economy.”

Monaco, the smallest member of the UN, was described by Mr Ban as a “mini United Nations”, with a population of 36,000 of 120 nationalities, including 8,000 Monegasques, living harmoniously in the Principality.

Mr Ban warned of the dangers of climate change and, from Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum, stated “From this magnificent setting, I issue a call to the world: I ask every citizen of our planet to think about what you can do to care for the global environment and promote sustainable development,”

In May Monaco will host a Model United Nations with students participating in a General Assembly and other multilateral bodies.

Mr Ban concluded his visit with a wide ranging discussion with the Prince on current political and environmental issues.