Transcription by Gert's Royals. [Notes added by Gert's Royals are in Brackets]
Dear Compatriots, Dear Residents, Dear Friends.
2022 has been a year of tribulations for all those affected by war, oppression, violence, and intolerance in our troubled world. The Princess and I offer them all our support, compassion, and affection. Our thoughts are also with those afflicted by illness, or who have seen loved ones suffering, reminding us not just how fragile life is, but sometimes also, how resilient we can be when faced with adversity.
The protracted Covid-19 health crisis, the end of which is now in sight, has tested us at length. Edmond Rostand wrote that "it is at night that faith in light is admirable!"
[Edmond Rostand was a French Poet.]
But we might suitably add that it is in the light of the dawn and perhaps especially at Christmas time that we are able to discern outstretched hands. That is why, in 2023, we will continue to reach out our hands to mobilise our efforts and to devote all our energy to the cause of peace, mutual acceptance, and solidarity. For the sake of our children, we must imagine and fashion a reconciled, balanced world.
A world that is also more respectful of nature. Be assured of my commitment to preserving our planet, and in particular its biodiversity, whether on land or at sea. We can be satisfied with the new agreement reached a few days ago at COP 15 on Biological Diversity in Montreal.
[COP 15 refers to the 15th UN Biodiversity Conference in Montreal, Canada. COP stands for "Conference of the Parties." There are multiple COPs, one for each UN Convention, and is attended by all the countries that have signed that UN Convention. Not be confused with the COP 27th (on Climate Change) held in Egypt UN that was mentioned in many other Monarch's Christmas/New Years Speeches. ]
It is my strong belief that each of us can play our part. We are all concerned. We are all capable. We each hold a piece of that collective power which, alone can change the world for the better. 2023 will be a year of elections in our country, both national and municipal elections. These are essential moments for the balance of our institutions, and demonstrate, if further proof were needed, the vitality of our democracy. I have no doubt that the men and women entrusted with new responsibilities, will be keen to play an active role in upholding the State of law, supported by the confidence and passion that have enabled us to build our history and look forward to the future.
2023 will also be a year of celebrations, with commemorations to mark the centenary of the birth of my father, Prince Rainier III, the "Builder Prince" in so many areas. He made Monaco a modern and dynamic constitutional monarchy, outward-looking and active on the international stage.
2023 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Principality joining the United Nations. And I want to reaffirm my strong belief in multilateralism and respect for our international commitments. The challenges we face today are global, and require global responses: The climate and energy crises, the fight against terrorism, money laundering and corruption, the fight against famine, the struggle for gender equality, and so on. In this respect, our resolute commitment as part of the Council of Europe, and in the ongoing talks on closer relations with the Europen Union, are crucial priorities for the future of our country. I know that I can count on the Monegasque community, our residents and our partners, to continue and reinvent our economic and social model.
"Tomorrow" is not a vain word, but the future prospect of our common desire.
Bonne Nouvelle année. Happy New Year. Bon Anu Nevu.
[Prince Albert, Princess Charlene, Crown Prince Jacques, & Princess Gabriella together at the end said Happy New Year in French, English and Monegasque.]
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