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Month: July 2025

State ministers plot next move as Monaco eyes FATF grey list departure

by: Cassandra Tanti
15/07/2025

On 11th July, Monaco’s inaugural session of the National Coordination and Monitoring Committee, chaired by interum Minister of State Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, convened to assess the Principality’s progress under the FATF’s grey list arsenal. With the first progress report accepted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and attention now turning to the second, public authorities stressed the importance of swift and sustained reform to secure Monaco’s removal from the list at the earliest opportunity.

Monaco assembled the first collegiate of its Comité de Coordination et de Suivi de la stratégie nationale de lutte contre le blanchiment de capitaux on 11th July under the leadership of Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, interum Minister of State and Government Counsellor for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation. At the meeting, the committee highlighted the collective dedication of ministries and authorities since the launch of the FATF’s ICRG monitoring process. Monaco’s adoption of its initial progress report, formally endorsed by the FATF at its last plenary, marks a critical turning point on the road to exiting the grey list.

Context: grey listing and national reforms to date

Monaco was placed on FATF’s grey list in June 2024, a designation that means the country is recognised as having deficiencies in its anti-money‑laundering and counter‑terrorist financing framework but is actively addressing them. In June 2025, FATF formally acknowledged Monaco’s “robust progress” following submission of its first voluntary status update. Monaco has since adopted a national strategy and action plan for 2025–2027, detailing comprehensive reforms aimed at resolving strategic vulnerabilities.

Recent European-level developments

Monaco’s grey‑list status was mirrored by the European Commission in an updated “high‑risk jurisdictions” list issued on 10th June 2025. The government has affirmed the designation as standard procedure and reiterated its commitment to align with FATF deadlines and benchmarks, signalling a united effort across national and European platforms.

Committee urges continued reform pace

With the first progress report formally approved, attention has shifted to preparing for the FATF’s second review. Committee members were reminded of procedural milestones ahead and urged to sustain momentum in regulatory and supervisory reform. The overarching aim remains to exit the grey‑list status “as quickly as possible”.

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Photo credit: Manuel Vitali, Government Communications Department

New weekly Larvotto market to bring fresh produce and local flavour to Monaco’s east end

by: Cassandra Tanti
15/07/2025

Beginning 17th July, a new weekly market will take place every Thursday morning at Larvotto’s Esplanade Est. Spearheaded by Marjorie Crovetto, Monaco’s Municipal Council aims to enhance neighbourhood life and offer more direct access to fresh produce, adding a fourth open-air market to the city’s thriving network.

The latest addition to Monaco’s public markets will launch on 17th July in the eastern section of the Larvotto esplanade, near the Lartigue Fountain. Dubbed Le Petit Marché du Larvotto, the initiative was introduced by Marjorie Crovetto, Deputy Mayor and Delegate for the Communal Domain – Commerce, Halls and Markets. It reflects the city’s commitment to expanding access to everyday services while boosting community interaction in a revitalised seafront district.

Local produce and thoughtful convenience

Open from 8am to 1pm every Thursday, the Larvotto market will welcome both vendors and at least one fresh produce grower. Shoppers can expect a variety of fruit and vegetables, with an emphasis on organic selections. The market is designed to cater primarily to residents in Monaco’s eastern neighbourhoods, who until now have had fewer direct options for fresh produce shopping.

Seamless service for all Monaco residents

As with Monaco’s existing public markets in Monte-Carlo, La Condamine and Monaco-Ville, the Larvotto market will offer a home delivery service coordinated by the Service du Domaine Communal. This option is available to residents who may require assistance in transporting purchases or have limited mobility.

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Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life

Princess Charlene delivers moving tribute to Prince Albert II at 76th Monaco Red Cross Gala

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
15/07/2025

The 76th Monaco Red Cross Gala took place on Saturday evening with Princess Charlene delivering an emotional tribute to Prince Albert II, marking the 20th anniversary of his accession to the throne. 

Held in the iconic Salle des Étoiles at Sporting Monte-Carlo, the gala brought together 800 guests for an evening that blended philanthropy with celebration. The Prince and Princess, serving as Present and Vice-President of the Monaco Red Cross, were joined by family members including Camille Gottlieb, Louis and Marie Ducruet.

Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene with, from left to right, Marie and Louis Ducruet, and Camille Gottlieb. Photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

The annual event honours the Monaco Red Cross’s work with the most vulnerable and recognises the support of its donors.

Princess Charlene’s heartfelt address captured the essence of the evening, as she praised her husband’s dedication to both the Red Cross and environmental causes before turning to the anniversary.

“This 12th July marks the 20 years of your succession…Since that day, you led Monaco with wisdom, courage and determination,” the Princess said. “You have initiated many changes in Monaco, sometimes involving difficult decisions, always guided by your desire for unity and serenity for our country.”

Princess Charlene delivered a heltfelt speech to her husband during the gala. Photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

The Princess then concluded her tribute with a moving message of support to the Prince: “Monseigneur, Albert, you know that I will always be by your side, with all Monégasques.

“We are with you, wholeheartedly, to protect Monaco and its future under your leadership. We love you, we support you and we thank you for being there for all of us.”

Princess Charlène during her speech at the Monaco Red Cross Gala, photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

Gala highlights art and entertainment

The evening’s culinary experience was crafted by Chef Thierry Saez Manzanares, who designed a refined dinner to complement the gala’s atmosphere.

Following the meal, guests participated in the traditional tombola featuring prized donated by prestigious maisons.

Guests included Monegasque sporting her Charles Leclerc and his girlfriend Alexandra Saint Mleux, pictured here with Camille Gottlieb, Louis Ducruet and Marie Ducruet. Photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

Renowned artist Bernar Venet also presented his unique work titled ‘Generative Angles Painting – Red 11’, symbolising the marriage of artistic expression and charitable commitment.

The event concluded with a spectacular firework display that illuminated Monaco’s skyline, followed by an explosive concert performance by British rock legend Billy Idol.

Billy Idol was headline performer at Monaco’s most famous gala of the year. Photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

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Main photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

‘Demain l’Océan?’ exhibition tackles climate crisis through contemporary art

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
15/07/2025

Monaco’s Quai Antoine 1er Exhibition Hall has been transformed into an immersive oceanic journey with ‘Demain l’Océan?’, running until 7th September. The exhibition brings together 34 artists from five continents to explore the relationship with the world’s seas through 71 works including photography, painting, sculpture, and video installations. 

Curated by Elodie Antoine with scenography by Thomas Guillaume, the show coincides with the 3rd UN Ocean Conference and forms part of France’s ‘La Mer en Commun-Année de la Mer’ initiative.

Six-part oceanic journey

Rather than giving direct environmental messages, Elodie Antoine designed the exhibition as a thoughtful journey through six thematic sections. “The idea was to place the spectator facing a horizon that can be somewhat turbulent,” she explains.

The first thematic section, called ‘The Horizon’, opens with diverse mediums including embroidery, photography, video and painting. Featured artists include Kiatu, a Guyanese artist who “reconnects with Asian tapestry,” and Lucas Arruda, whose Amazonian childhood memories create “imagined horizons” through his unique paint-removal technique.

‘Fauna and Flora’ represents the second section and it immerses visitors in an underwater world through green colour schemes. “Little by little to enter into the depths,” Antoine explains. This section features ceramics, bronzes, mobiles, and drawings.

Following, ‘Inhabiting the Shore’ examines humanity’s coastal relationship, exploring how beaches have densified with mass tourism while questioning our responsibility to protect these spaces.

The fourth section, ‘The Sea in Peril’, addresses contemporary environmental threats through installations showing pollution impact and microplastics. ‘What Future for the Ocean?’ concludes with works visualising extreme weather, rising seas and climate disasters, questioning what awaits without immediate action.

Pollution impact featured at ‘Demain l’Océan?’ exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

Global perspective

Antoine avoided a Mediterranean-centric approach: “I didn’t want us to make an exhibition that only spoke about the Mediterranean.” The international scope addresses marine pollution, climate migration, and rising sea levels through works from multiple continents.

The exhibition, organised by Monaco’s Direction des Affaires Culturelles, aims to reflect the principality’s maritime heritage, from Prince Albert I’s 1921 warnings about marine destruction to Prince Albert II’s current conservation work.

‘Demain l’Océan?’ runs until 7th September 2025 at the Quai Antoine 1er Exhibition Hall and is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 1pm-7pm with free entry.

See more in Kyriaki Topalidou’s video below…

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

Monaco braces for pivotal E1 electric powerboat showdown as Rafa and Aoki go head to head

by: Cassandra Tanti
15/07/2025

This weekend Monaco plays host to a potentially decisive round of the UIM E1 World Championship, the world’s first 100 % electric powerboat race series. With just three races to go, Team Rafa leads by a mere seven points over Team Aoki. A strong showing could see home-grown hero Tom Chiappe elevate his team toward the crown at November’s Miami finale.

From 18th to 19th July, the eyes of the electric-boat racing world turn to Port Hercule. The race builds on the adrenaline-charged showdowns in Dubrovnik and Lago Maggiore, where Rafa surged ahead to 125 points, closely pursued by Aoki, just seven points behind.

Local favourite in pursuit of glory

French pilot Tom Chiappe, paired with Spain’s Cris Lazarraga, has impressed on these waters and is primed to make a decisive impact. As Monaco extends a warm welcome from its French border, local supporters are expected to rally behind their compatriot at one of the season’s most glamorous venues.

Festival atmosphere and ocean-friendly focus

The electric hydrofoil RaceBirds will slice through the water in Port Hercule, reaching blistering speeds and offering unparalleled spectator views. Alongside the action on the water, the ‘E1 Acceleration’ festival on Jetée Lucciana brings live entertainment and activities throughout Saturday.

The event also coincides with the 20th anniversary of Prince Albert II’s reign. His longstanding commitment to marine conservation resonates strongly with E1’s mission to champion ocean health. In partnership with MonacoTech, E1 founder Rodi Basso will present three local cleantech start-ups at the Ocean Club during the ‘Blue Impact’ dialogues.

Monaco’s bolt of electric marine innovation

Monaco isn’t merely a picturesque backdrop; it is instrumental in steering E1’s future. As a global leader in maritime electrification, the Principality supports innovations showcased at the event—cementing its status as a hub for sustainable marine mobility.

Broadcast reach and season ahead

Race weekend begins with qualifying on Friday and culminates in the final on Saturday afternoon. The race will be shown live across Europe on DAZN and the E1 YouTube channel, reaching over 140 territories globally. Monaco marks the final European leg before the series heads to Lagos in October and climaxing with the Miami finale in November.

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Photo source: E1

New National Museum of Monaco welcomes ‘Cactus’ exhibition

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
14/07/2025

Villa Sauber is hosting ‘Cactus’ –  exploring centuries of botanical and artistic fascination for the nature’s most resilient plants. The exhibition runs from 6th July to 11th January 2026. 

Developed in collaboration with the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech, the exhibition features historical specimens, contemporary artworks, and living displays alike gathering over 200 objects under one roof.

Co-curated by Mark Jeanson, botanist at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, and Laurent Le Bon, former president of the Centre Pompidou, the exhibition traces the journey of these plants from their natural habitats to European gardens and artistic consciousness.

The Cactaceae family includes numerous species that have evolved extraordinary water-conserving features such as wavy coatings, volume-optimised structures, and spine-transformed leaves to survive in harsh conditions.

Inspiring artists across centuries

Beyond their scientific significance, the plant has captured artistic imagination for generations. The exhibition presents works spanning from pre-Columbian codices to contemporary installations.

The interwar period also proved particularly inspiring for cactus art, coinciding with the plants’ increasing accessibility and the rise of amateur collecting societies.

Contemporary artists continue this fascination. Martin Creed uses repeated column-like shapes to create musical patterns that reflect natural growth. Meanwhile, Katinka Bock captures their details in bronze with realistic accuracy.

Cactus exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

Gardens complete the exhibition

The exhibition extends beyond the museum’s walls into Villa Sauber’s gardens. The latter has been transformed into a cactus display with assistance from Monaco’s Exotic Garden.

Featured gardens also include Monaco’s own Exotic Garden, established in the 1930s, alongside the iconic Majorelle Garden in Marrakech and César Manrique’s cactus garden in Lanzarote.

Cactus exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

Ecological message

The exhibition also addresses environmental concern for emerging diseases that affect cactus populations and illegal harvesting that threatens the species survival.

Additionally, the plants have become symbols of resilience in an era of climate change, with artists using their imagery to explore themes of survival and adaptation.

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Main photo by Monaco Life.