Russia-Monaco cement future relations

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.