It was a beautiful moment.

Many personalities from around the world joined the celebrations of a so significant anniversary : the Crans Montana Forum established its headquarters in the Principality of Monaco in 1997 ! 21 years ago !

I would like with a lot of emotion to pay tribute to the late HSH Prince Rainier III, Sovereign Prince of Monaco, who made this move possible.

I would like also to thank Mr. Henri Fissore (he was minister of Economy), Mr. Georges Grinda (Head of staff of the Sovereign Prince) and the late Mr. André Palmero (the closest advisor to the Prince) who was my best support in the very beginnings.

He was my permanent link with the Palace. Mr. Palmero and Mr. Fissore advised me a lot and thanks to them we implemented a number of valuable activities in Monaco.

Une première lettre officielle de SAS le Prince Rainier III devenue historique et que je conserve avec émotion dans mon bureau.

I remember that the final decision related to the incorporation of Crans Montana Forum SAM in Monaco was notified to me the same day that I was presented with the Legion d'Honneur by the Grand Chancelier of the National Order in Geneva.

Quite at the same moment, a so brilliant and elegant Prime Minister was appointed in Monaco : Mr. Patrick Leclercq.

He understood the interest represented by the Forum for Monaco and together, in an open and constructive cooperation, for years, we made a great job for this extraordinary and beautiful country that I feel authorized to consider a little bit – and more today – as being mine.

Indeed since 1990 – the very beginning for the yearly session – , the Office of Tourism and Congress of Monaco was represented on the occasion of each of my Forums in Switzerland !

Its representative was showing a huge interest for the growing South-South dimension of our activities. He was always insisting on what Monaco could bring to my Organization.

Finally, getting closer to the Mediterranean was not only a necessity but the nicest decision I took in my professional life.

The Principality of Monaco is the only "small state" of the world which enjoys a so high and respected image.

HSH Prince Rainier III built the modern Principality and integrated it to the World. HSH Prince Albert II, thanks to his tireless efforts and numerous foreign official visits provided Monaco with a unique and prestigious visibility.

Today, Monaco is definitely the crossroads of the planet.

Its modern history and role are only beginning and thanks to HSH Prince Albert II, things are changing every day on the way to a better and deeper World integration.

With Mr. Jean-Luc Allavena, Head of Staff of HSH Prince Albert of Monaco

Indeed, there is an unchallenged vision in Monaco !

The Foundation Prince Albert II of Monaco, only to speak of Environment among so many issues, is now playing a key role in building a more humane and sustainable planet.