Monaco takes on presidency of Pelagos Agreement on marine mammals

On 12 and 13 November 2025, at the 10th meeting of the three countries party to the Pelagos Agreement, Monaco was appointed to take on the role of presidency for the next two years.

The Monegasque delegation, led by Isabelle Rosabrunetto, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, oversaw two days of intensive work bringing together representatives of France, Italy and Monaco, as well as numerous partners committed to protecting marine wildlife.

Created more than 25 years ago by the three founding countries, the Pelagos Agreement is a unique cooperation framework in the Mediterranean for the preservation of marine mammals. The Pelagos Sanctuary covers 87,500 km², from the Giens peninsula to southern Tuscany and extending up to northern Sardinia. These waters, rich in biodiversity but heavily exposed to human pressures – maritime traffic, pollution, underwater noise and accidental captures – require strengthened coordination between States.

In a message addressed to participants, Prince Albert II emphasised the Principality’s determination to lead the presidency “in a spirit of continuity” by deepening cooperation between the three countries and reinforcing implementation mechanisms. He stressed the importance of raising awareness, particularly among younger generations, to ensure the long-term preservation of marine ecosystems.

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Monaco’s presidency role highlights its ongoing commitment to protecting the marine environment and to multilateral dialogue. The Principality intends to continue the efforts already undertaken, in particular by developing increased collaboration with Mediterranean regional organisations and beyond.