Brussels: Monaco and the EU suspend negotiations for an Association Agreement

A recent meeting in Brussels between the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, Maroš Šefčovič and a Monegasque delegation led by Isabelle Berro-Amadei led to an amicable suspension of negotiations for an Association Agreement between Monaco and the European Union.

A press release by the Princely Government dated 15 September stated that during the meeting, the Monegasque delegation recalled the main principles underpinning the Principality’s identity, “to which Monegasque citizens are deeply attached and which were specified from the beginning of negotiations.” 

According to the press release, the Executive Vice-President confirmed the European Commission’s objective of signing an Association Agreement by the end of 2023, based on the mandate entrusted to him by the Council of the European Union and founded on the four freedoms governing the movement of goods, persons, services and capital and the preservation of the homogeneity and good functioning of the internal market.

“Following a frank and cordial discussion, those present reached a shared understanding that it was impossible to reconcile the requirements of the European Union with the red lines established by HSH the Prince at the outset of negotiations. These red lines aim to ensure that the current living, working and housing conditions of nationals and residents in the Principality are upheld,” states the Princely Government’s press release.

During the meeting, Isabelle Berro-Amadei, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, was accompanied by Kristel Malgherini, Advisor to the Prince’s Cabinet, HE Frédéric Labarrère, Ambassador and Head of Monaco’s Permanent Representation to the European Union, and Isabelle Costa, High Commissioner for European Affairs. Both parties agreed that the current mandate of the European Union did not allow these conditions to be met and therefore decided to suspend the negotiations.

“The EU is and will remain a privileged partner of the Principality. The EU and Monaco share many of the same values and the Principality continues to support EU action around the world, including sanctions. Monaco wishes to continue the dialogue and work with the European Union on ways to strengthen this relationship.The Principality of Monaco and the European Union recalled the importance of deepening existing cooperation in many areas,” states the Princely Government’s press release.