His Serene Highness Prince Albert II paid an official visit to the Vatican on Saturday, January 17, where he was received in private audience by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV in the library of the Apostolic Palace…
The meeting reflected the long-standing and close ties between the Holy See and the Principality of Monaco, rooted in regular dialogue and shared commitments on major global issues.
During their exchange, the Sovereign Pontiff and HSH Prince Albert II reviewed current international affairs before turning to themes of respect for life, the role of the family, and the protection of human dignity. Discussions also focused on peace and environmental responsibility, highlighting a strong convergence of views between the Holy See and Monaco on humanitarian and ecological priorities.
On this occasion, HSH Prince Albert II formally invited Pope Leo XIV to visit the Principality, underlining Monaco’s desire to continue strengthening its relationship with the Vatican. At the close of the audience, the Sovereign Prince presented the Holy Father with a rare edition of the Confessions of Saint Augustine that once belonged to Alfred de Vigny and was annotated by him. In return, Pope Leo XIV offered a bas-relief inspired by the icon attributed to Saint Luke, depicting Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
Following the audience, the Sovereign Prince was received by His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and took part in a working meeting with H.E.R. Mgr Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, reaffirming the excellence of bilateral relations.
HSH Prince Albert II was accompanied by Lionel Beffre, Government Counsellor-Minister of the Interior, and H.E.M. Philippe Orengo, Ambassador of the Principality to the Holy See. The Vatican delegation also included Mgr Simon Kassas, responsible for French-speaking states. The visit forms part of the ongoing extension of the historic and close relationship between Monaco and the Holy See.
Image: Vatican Media
