In a ceremony steeped in tradition and mutual admiration, Prince Albert II of Monaco and Princess Charlene welcomed President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal on Friday for a state visit aimed at deepening bilateral relations in diplomacy, culture, economy, and scientific research.
The day began with full military honors in the Cour d’Honneur of the Prince’s Palace, followed by the playing of the Portuguese and Monegasque national anthems and a review of the guard. In a private audience, the two heads of state reaffirmed their commitment to stronger diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties.
During an official exchange of decorations, Prince Albert elevated President Rebelo de Sousa to the rank of Grand Cross of the Order of Saint Charles, Monaco’s highest honor. In turn, the Portuguese leader bestowed upon the Prince the Grand Collar of the Order of Christ and upon Princess Charlene the Grand Cross of the same order.
A working luncheon followed in the palace’s Grande Salle à Manger. Later, the delegation signed a framework agreement to expand cooperation in the fields of economy, ocean science, and environmental protection.
At the request of President Rebelo de Sousa, Prince Albert and Princess Charlene hosted an informal exchange in the Jardin d’Hiver with Gareth Wittstock, Secretary General of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, who presented the foundation’s global initiatives in drowning prevention and aquatic education.
In the afternoon, the Portuguese delegation visited the Jardin Saint-Martin for the unveiling of the exhibition “Sovereign Oceanographers,” paid tribute with a bust honoring King Carlos I of Portugal - a pioneering marine scientist - and laid wreaths at the statue of Prince Albert I.
The visit concluded at the Oceanographic Museum with a tour of the “Monaco and the Ocean” and “Mediterranean 2050” spaces, followed by the signing of a cooperation protocol between the Académie de la Mer of Monaco and the Atlantic Center to enhance joint research on the geopolitics of the oceans.
The state visit underscored the long-standing friendship between Portugal and Monaco, two nations united by history, shared maritime heritage, and a common vision for ocean preservation.
Photo credits: Frédéric NEBINGER / Palais Princier – Manu VITALI & Stéphane DANNA / Direction de la Communication