Monaco
Prince William made a significant solo appearance in Monaco on June 8, stepping into an increasingly prominent international role with a compelling call to protect the world’s oceans. Speaking at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum, held on the eve of World Oceans Day, the Prince of Wales addressed a distinguished audience that included French President Emmanuel Macron, Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles, and Prince Albert of Monaco.
The forum, hosted at the Grimaldi Forum, marked a pivotal moment in the global environmental calendar as the international community looks ahead to the 2025 UN Ocean Conference. William’s participation underscored his rising stature as a global statesman and environmental leader.
Oceans are not a niche concern; they are a foundation of life, William emphasized in his address. Highlighting that oceans cover 70% of Earth’s surface, generate half of its oxygen, and sustain over 3 billion people, he stressed the urgency of protecting marine ecosystems. Currently, only 3% of the ocean is protected; far from the global target of 30% by 2030.
The Prince’s appearance comes amid King Charles’ ongoing cancer treatment, during which William has increasingly taken on high-profile responsibilities. A dedicated conservationist like his father, William is using his global platform to advance critical environmental causes, with ocean conservation now central to his mission.
His Monaco speech is being viewed as both a powerful statement on marine protection and a signal of his expanding diplomatic role, as the British monarchy continues to evolve in response to global challenges.