The main theme of Prince Albert's New Year's message was the looming global economic crisis.

After assuring Monegasques of his warm wishes for a happy and successful 2009, the Prince spoke about the current crisis and urged people to work for a more caring future, one less concerned with short term profits. He mentioned his own responsibilities for ensuring the future of the Principality and reiterated the reasons for his decision for calling a halt to the land reclamation project.

Concerns for the future of the environment were also prominent, with Albert II encouraging us to see saving the planet not only as a moral duty, but also as an opportunity for creativity and economic development.

With a final assurance to both compatriots and residents that he would do everything he could to ensure Monaco remains peaceful, happy, prosperous and generous, the Prince wished everyone a happy 2009 and ended with "Viva Munegu!" - long live Monaco!