Xavier Prache has succeeded Gilles Bessero at the head of the Société des Explorations de Monaco.
Mr Prache took over the reins at a private ceremony at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, in the presence of HE Mr Pierre Dartout, Minister of State and President of Explorations de Monaco.
Gilles Bessero had been invited by the Government to consolidate the project following its formation in 2017 and led the preparation and coordination of marine exploration missions combining scientific research, public communications and governmental cooperation including a major mission in the Indian Ocean in October and November 2022. He leaves to take up his retirement.
A graduate of France’s Naval Commissariat School (1992), Xavier Prache completed his entire career in the French Navy. His journey took him to Reunion, Brest, Cherbourg, Toulon and to Monaco where he was seconded to the Principality of Monaco to serve as aide-de-camp of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco between 2011 and 2012.
As director of the Société des Explorations de Monaco, his understanding of the marine environment and its expertise in geostrategy will undoubtedly be considerable assets for conduct of future missions carried out by Monaco Explorations.
Xavier Prache shares his enthusiasm after taking office: “The future of the Ocean is a subject that concerns us all, inseparably linked to that of humanity. It requires having a good knowledge of this environment, ensuring sustainable management and protection.
“Explorations of Monaco is in line with the legacy of Prince Albert I: to make the Ocean known, loved and protected”. It is with a realistic optimism that I take up my duties, happy at the idea of contributing to the contribution of the Sovereign and the Principality to the sustainable preservation of the Ocean, and to prepare and conduct the program of activities with our partners around the world.”
ORIGINAL SOURCE & PHOTO: Monaco Government Press Service
Gilles Bessero, left, with Xavier Prache Michel Dagnino
