Foreign policy and defense
According to abbreviationfinder, Monaco is a nation in Western Europe. Its capital city is Monaco. For Monaco, relations with France are of paramount importance. France is responsible for Monaco’s defense and has promised to protect its independence. Monaco is not a member of the EU, but uses the euro and is largely financially integrated with the EU through its customs union with France.
The economic union with France also regulates postal services, telecommunications and banking.
- Countryaah: Overview of business holidays and various national observances in Monaco for years of 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.
However, the relationship with France has not been problem-free. France has criticized Monaco for doing too little to stop economic crime in its territory while Monaco wants to reduce French influence over its domestic policy.
To mark its independence vis-à-vis mainly France and Italy, Monaco joined the UN in 1993 and participates in several other international organizations. In 2004, Monaco became a full member of the Council of Europe. The following year, France and Italy opened the first embassies ever in Monaco. The Principality has diplomatic relations at consular level with some 50 countries.