Photo credits: Palais Princier de Monaco / Michaël Alesi
NEW YORK - In a move underscoring the growing multilateral cooperation among small nations, Monaco and Singapore formally established diplomatic relations on Wednesday, during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The agreement, signed in New York, marks a consolidation of shared values and commitments to dialogue, cooperation and global governance between the two sovereign states.
The ceremony unfolded at the premises of Singapore's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, on the margins of the General Assembly debates. It followed a second bilateral meeting at the U.N., involving key representatives from both sides. Prince Albert II of Monaco received Singapore's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, along with Rena Lee, Singapore's Ambassador for International Law; Navjote Singh, a special adviser to the minister; Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Monaco's Minister of External Relations and Cooperation; Isabelle Picco, Monaco's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the U.N.; and Julie Donati, an adviser in the Prince's cabinet.
This formalization builds on a dynamic partnership already evident in multilateral forums. Despite their modest geographic sizes, Monaco and Singapore share a common vision of diplomacy rooted in open dialogue, collaborative efforts and multilateralism. The accord highlights how such states can play outsized roles in defending shared values and advancing constructive diplomacy to address global challenges.
Photo credits: Palais Princier de Monaco / Michaël Alesi
The timing of the agreement coincides with broader celebrations at the U.N., including the successful conclusion of negotiations on the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) accord. Both nations congratulated each other on the treaty's ratification by more than 60 countries, ending over two decades of talks. Monaco and Singapore each played central roles in these historic discussions, contributing to an outcome that advances marine conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources beyond national boundaries.
Singapore, in particular, has distinguished itself through its advocacy for small states on the international stage. The city-state originated two key initiatives: the Forum of Small States (FOSS) and the Global Governance Group (3G), which promote the representation and voice of smaller nations in multilateral processes.
While the new diplomatic ties represent a milestone, they also reflect the enduring commitment of both countries to engaged multilateralism. As small states navigating a complex global landscape, Monaco and Singapore demonstrate that size need not limit influence in fostering equitable and effective international governance.
Photo credits: Palais Princier de Monaco / Michaël Alesi