Overview:
Palau’s Ambassador Ilana Seid Knighted by Prince Albert II of Monaco
Palau’s Ambassador to the UN, Ilana Seid, has been awarded the prestigious Order of Saint-Charles, receiving the title of Chevalier from Prince Albert II for her leadership at the 2025 Blue Economy and Finance Forum. The Forum secured €8.7 billion for a regenerative blue economy and expanded global ocean finance commitments to more than USD $3.4 trillion.
Her parents and the Government of Palau praised the honor, calling it a proud moment for the nation and an inspiration to young Palauans.
By: L.N. Reklai
Monte Carlo, Monaco — Palau’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Ilana Seid, was honored by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco with the Knight of the Order of Saint-Charles (Chevalier de l’Ordre de Saint-Charles), one of the highest distinctions in the Principality of Monaco. The award recognizes her leadership as Co-Chair of the Steering Committee of the 2025 Blue Economy and Finance Forum (BEFF) held in Monaco in June.
The honor places Ambassador Seid among a distinguished list of past recipients, including Russian President Vladimir Putin (2013), former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki‑moon (2013), French leader Charles de Gaulle, and Princess Grace Kelly.
The 2025 BEFF, under Seid’s co-leadership, generated key outcomes for sustainable ocean development: €8.7 billion is set to be deployed into a regenerative and sustainable blue economy over the next five years. The forum also secured endorsements from 80 organizations across 25 countries, with a combined turnover of $600 billion, supporting the ‘Business in Ocean’ call to action. In addition, the #BackBlueOcean Finance Commitment expanded beyond $3.4 trillion in assets under management, as new corporate and financial institutions joined the initiative.
“Our family is extremely happy and proud for our daughter Ilana for getting this prestigious award from Prince Albert II. We hope that Ilana’s role at the UN can continue to inspire young Palauan and Pacific islanders, especially women. We continue to pray for her and thank the Lord for the blessings,” said her father, Alan Seid.
The Government of Palau also congratulated Ambassador Seid, noting her dedication and leadership. “Her dedication, leadership, and service continue to bring pride to our nation. Thank you, Ambassador, for all you do,” a statement from the Palauan government said.
With this honor, Ambassador Seid officially holds the title of Chevalier of the Order of Saint-Charles, marking a rare and significant recognition of her contributions to global sustainability and the blue economy.