On June 2, 2011, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco arrived in the Baltic country of Estonia. The prince was officially welcomed at Kadriorg Palace, in Tallinn, Estonia, by President Toomas Ilves, his wife Evelin, and the Prime Minister, Andrus Ansip.
After the myriad of handshakes, smiles, pats on the back, and posing for photos it was down to business. The purpose of the visit is to discuss bilateral relations between Monaco and Estonia. Moreover, the opportunity to “… intensify them as well as to discuss environmental issues.”
After formal discussions were over, Prince Albert II bolted out of the palace to see the city of Tallinn and all it has to offer. The prince had a chance to visit the KUMU Art Museum, check out the epic Electric Car Rally where he talked with the race participants. After all the chit-chat, the prince officially opened the Tallinn – Monte-Carlo Race:
The aim of the electric race is to re-establish the tradition of the historic race between Tallinn and Monte Carlo, to promote environmentally friendly electric vehicles and connect northern and southern Europe with environmentally friendly roads covered with electric plugs for electric vehicles
Then the prince unveiled a beautiful bench “…dedicated to Grace Kelly…” and attended an awards ceremony there after. From there he shuffled on over to the Old Town Educational College, and finally attended a charity dinner at the Estonia Opera House.
Tomorrow, Prince Albert has another packed and arduous day. What will he do you may ask? Well, he walk through the old town in Tallinn and finally have a meeting with the Prime Minister, Andrus Ansip.
To view photos from today’s activities please click the links here and here.
Photo courtesy of: Daylife by Reuters/Ints Kalnins