Potential Appointment of Hélène Conway-Mouret as Monaco's Next Minister of State
The French senator engages in high-level discussions during a recent visit to Monaco, raising questions about her candidacy for a prominent political role.
Hélène Conway-Mouret, a French senator serving since 2012, is under consideration as a potential successor to the post of Minister of State of Monaco.
During a recent parliamentary mission to the Principality, she met with several key figures in Monégasque politics.
When asked about her candidacy, Conway-Mouret stated, 'I have no comments to make on this matter.
The decision is the prerogative of the Sovereign, based on the recommendation of the President of the Republic.' She expressed willingness to accept such an appointment, should it arise, emphasizing her commitment to her roles and responsibilities.
Conway-Mouret’s qualifications for the role are notable.
She has maintained a longstanding connection with the Principality over her thirteen years in various political capacities in France.
From 2012 to 2014, she served as Minister Delegate for Foreign Affairs, responsible for French citizens abroad, and laid groundwork for the official visit of former President François Hollande to Monaco.
Since 2014, she has represented French citizens living outside of France as a Socialist senator and has also held the position of Vice President of the Senate from 2018 to 2020.
Her profile has drawn parallels to former Minister of State Didier Guillaume, praised for his ability to connect various political entities within Monaco.
Conway-Mouret acknowledged their similar trajectories, suggesting that her experience could facilitate collaboration between the Sovereign, government, National Council, and France.
Speculation regarding Conway-Mouret’s nomination has been fueled by discussions within media circles about potential institutional changes in Monaco.
Responding to suggestions of aspirations toward a parliamentary monarchy, she clarified, 'These are absolutely not my intentions.
It is not up to a proposed Minister of State from France to decide the future of Monaco.' She emphasized her belief in collaboration across sectors, stating, 'I do not like silos; I believe in horizontal thinking where everyone works together.'
During her visit, Conway-Mouret also met with Thomas Brezzo, President of the National Council, to discuss legislative advancements, including proposals related to abortion rights.
She expressed respect for the will of the Monégasque people and highlighted the democratic processes essential in shaping societal evolution.
Drawing on her experiences in Ireland, she noted the rapid social changes observed in the country, prompting reflections on similar developments in Monaco as society evolves.
Aside from her political endeavors, Conway-Mouret has deep ties to Ireland, which has been her home for the past three decades.
She has previously worked as a professor at the Dublin Institute of Technology and has a familial connection to the country.
Notably, she recently encountered Prince Albert II at a rugby match in Dublin, where they shared a moment of camaraderie over national pride.
Conway-Mouret remains attentive to the issues facing the French community in Monaco, expressing concern for their declining numbers and the need for the French government to address these concerns.
She recalled progress made on tax issues during her time as Minister, and anticipates that upcoming discussions with President Emmanuel Macron, scheduled for June, may facilitate resolutions to longstanding issues.
As speculation continues regarding her potential role, the future of the Minister of State position in Monaco remains undetermined as both local and national political landscapes evolve.