It was announced this afternoon that H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and his fiancée, Charlene Wittstock, will visit the lovely country of Ireland starting on April 4 – 6, 2011.

The couple will visit Dublin and Galway to “…mark the 50th anniversary of the visit (to Ireland) of his late parents, H.S.H. Prince Rainier III and H.S.H. Princess Grace.” (The Journal.ie)

According to the Irish newspaper, Drogheda Independent:

Officials said the programme for the visit will reflect the long-standing ties between Ireland and Monaco and will underline the potential for future co-operation in the areas of business, the environment, research, education, tourism and culture.

President Mary McAleese and her husband Dr Martin McAleese will formally welcome Prince Albert to Ireland and will host a state dinner in his honour.

He will also have meetings with Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Environment Minister Phil Hogan, Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney and the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Gerry Breen.

During his time in Ireland, the Prince will visit Trinity College in Dublin, tour the redeveloped Docklands area in the city, and the Irish Marine Institute in Oranmore, County Galway.

He will also inaugurate an exhibition in honour of the late Princess Grace at Farmleigh House, where he will host a reception to highlight Irish literature and art.

Prince Albert will be accompanied by a delegation from the Monaco Chamber of Economic Development during certain events.

More information is coming through the newswire so stay tuned.

Source: DFA.ie,  Drogheda-Independent.ie, Independent.ie, and The Journal.ie Photo courtesy of: Zimbio.com by Pool/Getty Images Europe