Monaco and Italy have taken a decisive step toward strengthening their bilateral relationship following a productive meeting of the Italian-Monegasque Joint Commission for Administrative Cooperation, held on Monday, May 12 in the Principality. The talks brought together senior government figures from both nations, co-chaired by Monaco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, and Italy’s Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Giorgio Silli.
The agenda was broad and ambitious, tackling a range of issues from mobility and healthcare to education and crime prevention. One of the key breakthroughs came with Italy’s recognition of Monegasque driving licences, which, under the 1968 Vienna Convention, no longer require an international permit for use on Italian roads. Discussions also advanced on easing authorisation procedures for Monegasque transport companies operating across the border, aiming to boost trade and streamline regional movement.
Healthcare was another pillar of the dialogue. Both sides explored mechanisms to extend access to medical services in Monaco for residents of Liguria, seeking a mutually beneficial arrangement that strengthens regional healthcare provision. The commission also examined social security matters, notably the harmonisation of family dependency benefits across both nations.
Education and cultural exchange received a boost too. Italian delegates expressed strong interest in promoting Italian language instruction in Monaco’s schools, a nod to the cultural and historical ties linking the two Mediterranean neighbours. This was met with openness by Monegasque officials, who agreed to further discussions aimed at expanding linguistic cooperation.
On the economic front, the commission explored ways to promote cross-border investment. A proposal to establish a joint economic forum was welcomed, with both parties keen to create new opportunities for businesses in Monaco and Italy to collaborate more closely. The goal: to stimulate innovation, drive growth, and foster a more dynamic commercial relationship.
Security was high on the agenda, with concrete steps proposed to enhance cooperation in the fight against financial and transnational crime. Officials pledged to draft a memorandum of understanding between the Italian Guardia di Finanza and Monaco’s Police Department to enable faster, more effective collaboration in tackling cross-border criminal activity.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with both delegations praising the constructive atmosphere and tangible progress made across multiple sectors. The session was described as a milestone in the diplomatic rapport between the two countries, reaffirming their shared commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation.
The next round of talks will be held in Rome, underscoring the mutual desire to maintain momentum and continue building a deeper, more integrated partnership. As Monaco and Italy edge closer together on matters of policy and practice, the foundations for a modern and strategic alliance are being firmly laid.
