Athens Mayor Haris Doukas presented the City of Athens Medal to Prince Albert II of Monaco in a special ceremony held on Tuesday, April 21, at Athens City Hall. The honour was bestowed in recognition of the Prince’s longstanding commitment to environmental protection and his active contribution to promoting sustainable development and international cooperation in addressing climate change.
In his remarks, Mayor Doukas described Prince Albert II as one of the most consistent and active environmental advocates in the world. Through the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and initiatives such as Monaco Explorations, he said, the Prince has made a decisive contribution to advancing scientific knowledge, protecting marine ecosystems, and raising public awareness of environmental responsibility. Doukas noted that his commitment to preserving the sustainability of the Mediterranean is reflected in his visits to the National Marine Park of Alonnisos and the Northern Sporades and to Elafonissos, where he actively supported the protection of threatened species such as the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus). “His work and example confirm the importance of cooperation between institutions and cities in tackling environmental challenges,” the mayor said. “Through joint actions and the sharing of good practices, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for the next generations.”
“No one can act alone”
Prince Albert II responded with a message of solidarity: “To save our common planet, none of us can act alone — let alone against one another. That is why the principles conceived and promoted by Athens for 2,500 years are so precious. We must draw from them our faith in reason and science, our commitment to dialogue, and our respect for the law. These are the values that the Principality of Monaco promotes together with you, as a city-state that admires Athens’ heritage and remains faithful to its principles. That is why the honour you bestow on me today carries particular meaning. I wish to thank you sincerely and warmly.”
Following the ceremony, Mayor Doukas and Prince Albert exchanged gifts, and the Prince was given a tour of Athens City Hall.
