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LEADER

are constantly thinking, in the department,
about how to improve working methods,
training and knowledge, in line with our needs
and capacities.

Monaco is a neutral state but quickly
positioned itself against the Russian
invasion of Ukraine. How were the sanctions
decided?
Since the invasion of Ukrainian territory
© Direction de la Coopération Internationale au Burkina Faso asserted on the international scene its firm
by the Russian Federation, Monaco has

attachment to respect for international
law, to the sovereignty of Ukraine and to its
territorial integrity within its internationally-
recognised borders. The Principality also
called for the continuation of dialogue and
diplomatic negotiations, whilst saluting
the courage shown by the Ukrainian people
and their leaders. With regard to economic
need to make this known - and I can assure the development of international activities and financial sanctions, the Principality of
you that our ambassadors and consuls are and, in particular, the appointment of foreign Monaco, by virtue of its membership of the
working on this with efficiency and fervour! ambassadors accredited in the Principality. Eurozone and the integration of its banks
The transformation of what was, until then, a into European payment systems, immediately
With Covid-19, has digital changed the usual department reporting directly to the Minister adopted, by ministerial decision, general
codes of the diplomatic world? of State, made it possible to broaden its economic measures and freezing of funds
Adaptability has really been the key word of means of action and to rely ultimately on two identical to those taken by the European
our actions: a recent example, in view of the departments: the Department of Diplomatic Union.
health constraints which persist, particularly and Consular Relations and the Department
in Asia, it was proposed to the Principality to of International Cooperation. It is, therefore, Monaco has taken in families of Ukrainian
participate in digital format in an International refugees. How is their integration going?
Import Expo Fair. This year and for the The Principality has indeed shown its
first time, the national pavilions will be “… I was able solidarity with the Ukrainian population
dematerialised and only accessible from the to speak at and welcomed people who have fled the
official website of the show. The participating conflict, mainly women and children. As of
countries will provide content to highlight length with 19 May 2022, nearly 160 people who have left
their development and economic and cultural Ukraine have found refuge in Monaco and 33
attractiveness in the digital exhibition halls. the Ukrainian children are being educated in Monégasque
More generally, the diplomatic world has Ambassador to establishments. Their integration is going
succeeded, during this particular period of well. In this regard, the Prince’s government
pandemic, in demonstrating responsiveness Monaco.” has established, in conjunction with the Red
and adaptation, since links have been Cross of Monaco, a procedure to ensure that
maintained, activity has continued and they receive the best possible reception in
sessions, meetings and conferences have a relatively young department but which has the Principality. These people benefit from
been held remotely even if, I willingly admit, already been able to evolve and structure social and medico-psychological support,
these solutions do not replace what is at the itself to ensure the international presence of medical coverage, financial aid and French
heart of our business, personal exchanges Monaco. One cannot compare the Monégasque lessons provided by the Alliance Française.
and direct contact. diplomatic corps with that of a large country. In addition, a welcome guide, translated into
As I said, our diplomatic network is made up English and Ukrainian, has been developed to
Should the training of the diplomatic corps of 16 ambassadors but, for all that, thanks facilitate the arrival and integration of these
evolve and become professionalised? to an extensive consular network, Monaco is displaced persons.
As you know, the Department for Foreign present all over the world. Our ambassadors
Affairs was created on 10 January 2005 are supported in their work by able diplomats, What are the current relations with Russia
by Sovereign Ordinance of HSH Prince who now change assignments after a certain given that Monaco is listed amongst the
Rainier III. The constitution of this new number of years in office, in order to acquire hostile states?
ministerial structure was initiated following new experiences and enrich their skills. We We are very concerned, as is everyone today

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