Russia-Monaco cement future relations

Prince Albert II of Monaco and Russia's President Vladimir Putin arrived in the Russian republic of Tyva in Siberia, after meeting in St. Petersburg where they discussed prospects of the future in relations between the two countries.

On arriving at the airport they were taken to the old fortress of Por-Bazhyn, founded in the eighth century. In 1995 it was included into a national heritage list and is protected by the state.

At talks in an imperial palace outside of St. Petersburg a visit by Prince Albert's Great Grandfather was brought up.

“The choice of our meeting place is not a coincidence. We remember that Russian Tsar Nicholas II received your great grandfather here. Your great grandfather was a well-known researcher and we note that you continue family traditions,” Mr Putin said to Prince Albert.

“I am glad co-operation between our countries in cultural, economic and scientific fields is so fruitful. I'd like to stress that I've developed a wonderful relationship with the Russian scientists who helped organise my expedition to the North Pole. The success of the trip illustrates the fact that historic co-operation between our states continues today,” Monaco's Prince noted.