France’s new ambassador to Monaco, Christophe Lemoine, has officially begun his mission in the Principality, highlighting the close relationship between the two neighbouring countries…
Lemoine presented his credentials to His Serene Highness Prince Albert II at the Prince’s Palace before being received at the residence of Minister of State Christophe Mirmand. The appointment is his first as an ambassador following a diplomatic career that has included extensive work on European and cross-border affairs, including four years in Rome.
In an interview with Monaco Info, Lemoine said his first weeks in the Principality had already changed his perception of the country. He described France and Monaco as more than simply neighbours, pointing to their shared daily concerns and the strong connections between their populations.
Deepening that cooperation will be one of his principal objectives. Lemoine noted that France and Monaco are linked by around 200 treaties and agreements, with economic, cultural, educational and humanitarian cooperation among the areas that may require existing arrangements to evolve.
His second priority will be the French community in Monaco and the practical cross-border issues affecting residents of both countries. Transport, infrastructure and healthcare were amongst the areas he identified as important everyday concerns.
Lemoine said he was honoured by his appointment and enthusiastic about discovering more about Monaco during his posting.
Image: Prince’s Palace