Prince Albert of Monaco – English Translation of New Years Eve Speech (2023)

The speech was originally given in French. The following text is from the English Subtitles, with a few adjustments.

Compatriots, Residences, Friends,

Only with time, and the necessary benefits of hindsight, can we say we will collectively come to remember the events of this past year.

Whether on the world stage or in our personal lives, the year has brought its share of happiness, but also trials, tribulations, and tragedies. The Princess and I want to express our support, and our deep compassion and affection for all those affected by bereavement, suffering, illness, and loneliness.

These are difficult times, and their consequences are not yet clear to see. Our country has been spared may of the upheavals affecting the world. So have a shared duty to acknowledge our good fortune, and an ambition too, to remain united by protecting our institutional model, our social and economic achievements.

We must also show our gratitude for these advantages by working together to pass on what we have inherited to future generations.

For our principality, 2023 has also been a year of celebrations, with commemorations marking the centenary of the birth of my father, Prince Rainier III. My family and I are delighted to have shared these moments with you. They reminded us how his reign modernized our country by making Monaco a prosperous and dynamic State, outward-looking and active in the concert of the nation.

2023 also marked the 30th Anniversary of the principality’s admittance into the United Nations, and I wanted to take this opportunity to reaffirm my dedication to multi-lateralism and respect for our international commitments.

Our unity and uniqueness are our shield against the problems that today beset so many of our Western societies, and I consider it my wholehearted duty to ensure that our community remains cohesive and prosperous. History has too often shown us how fragile nations can be, and so in an increasingly complex and unstable world, it is vital that we stay the course.

I know I can rely on those men and women who have been entrusted with new responsibilities. I know that I can count on the people of Monaco, our residents and our partners, all committed to playing their part in maintaining the unity which, over 700 years, and no matter what challenges we have faced, we have built our history and looked to the future.

We cannot predict the future, but we can prepare for it. We may not foresee it, but we must create it. The year ahead heralds many challenges, but holds rich promise.

We must continue to mobilize our efforts and devote our energy to the cause of peace, mutual acceptance, and solidarity.

Compatriots, Residences, Friends,

The Princess and I send each and every one of you our best wishes for 2024.

May it bring you happiness, peace, joy, and good health.