Princess Charlene and Prince Albert Attend Peace Event with French President and First Lady
The Monegasque royals joined Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron in Metz, France, for a conference on European peace and unity.
Princess Charlene of Monaco and Prince Albert II of Monaco were welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron at a peace and unity event in Metz, France. The meeting, titled 'At the Roots of Europe for Peace and Unity,' took place near the German border.
Princess Charlene exercised her 'privilège du blanc,' a tradition allowing certain Catholic royals to wear white when meeting the Pope. She wore a white suit ensemble, complemented by a statement collar and a matching handbag with gold detailing. This rare privilege is typically extended to queens and princesses from Catholic countries for significant occasions, such as private audiences, canonizations, beatifications, and special masses. Normally, papal audiences require women to wear a long black dress with a high collar and sleeves, and a black mantilla. Brigitte Macron adhered to this protocol, wearing a black dress with a gold brooch.
The conference, held in Metz, the hometown of Robert Schuman, a key figure in the formation of the European Union, aimed to strengthen ties between European nations. All European Union heads of state and heads of European institutions were invited. Pope Leo XIV delivered an address at the event, marking the final day of his four-day visit to France. He spoke of a 'new stage' in the history of 'contemporary Europe' and called for younger Europeans to resist violence and work for their communities, including through political engagement.
During his address, Pope Leo urged Europe to draw on its Christian roots to overcome conflict and the 'desire for domination.' He also advocated for a willingness to compromise for the greater good of peace and called for European unity to combat 'lies and deceit.'
This meeting follows a state dinner hosted by the Monegasque royals for President Macron and his wife in June, marking the first state dinner with a French leader in over 40 years. Earlier in March, Princess Charlene and her daughter, Princess Gabriella, also utilized the 'privilège du blanc' during Pope Leo XIV's visit to Monaco. On that occasion, they were accompanied by Prince Albert II and young Prince Jacques.