In Monte Carlo (principality of Monaco) the Fund for Protection of Lake Baikal presented the scientific results of Mirs on Baikal Expedition (2008-2010) supported by METROPOL Group.

On 16 June, at the exhibition gallery close to the Oceanographic Museum of Cousteau the opening of the exhibition titled the Wonderful World of Baikal was held. The exhibition displays unique photos which captured the most exciting moments of the three year scientific and research expedition Mirs on Baikal arranged by the Fund for Protection of Lake Baikal.

The opening ceremony was attended by Mr Artur Chulingarov, President of the Fund for Protection of Lake Baikal and a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Chairman of the Fund's Guardianship Board, and Mr Mikhail Slipenchuk, Director of METROPOL Group. An honorary guest of the event was Albert II, Sovereign Prince of Monaco. Mr Slipenchuk expressed his gratitude for a chance to present the results of the Baikal expedition at the Oceanographic museum in Monaco. He also noted that participation in the event of Prince Albert II “may attract public's attention to environmental problems at Baikal, as well as the region in general, thus enhancing the standard of life”.

Prince Albert II in his turn said that cooperation between his Fund and the Fund for Protection of Lake Baikal helped strengthen relations between the countries. The parties determined new directions for preservation of the natural balance on the planet. Albert II supported Mr Slipenchuk’s idea of an expedition to search for the Atlantean continent and then viewed the exposition. It was obvious that Prince Albert was impressed with the beauty of Baikal’s nature in combination with Mir manned submersibles. In conclusion the parties exchanged gifts. Mikhail Slipenchuk presented to Prince Albert II a rare pilot map of Baikal dated 1908.