This afternoon HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco arrived in Badu in Australia’s Torres Strait. He was welcomed, alongwith the Monaco Explorations team, by Councillor Laurie Nona, and Ronnie Nomoa from the “Council of Elders” with traditional song and dance from the Badu Island and a speech in the native language.

The Sovereign was welcomed by host Alick Tipoti and his family. The Tipoti’s offered him a frangipani tree flower garland, a traditional symbol of welcome from Polynesian influences.
Afterward, the Sovereign greeted the crowd who had gathered to welcome him, taking photos and enjoying the company and the emotional spirit. Because this is the first time a Head of State who is committed to highlighting the impacts of climate change on small island communities has visited Badu, the feelings of extreme gratitude for this visit were present in the crowd.