Seychelles Delegation to Participate in UN-Led Somali Counter Piracy Events

Seychelles Delegation to Participate in UN-Led Somali Counter Piracy Events

26.06.2013

Following pledges made by the Seychelles Government to be actively involved in peace building initiatives on the ground in Somalia, a delegation of technical experts has been sent to participate in the United Nations Assistance Mission to Somalia (UNSOM) led Maritime Security and Counter Piracy Events in Nairobi this week.

Technical Advisor, Mr. Philippe Michaud and Military Attaché, Major Edward Anacoura, both with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will be participating in the meetings to discuss issues of maritime economy, governance and rule of law, among other crucial related sessions.

Their participation is part of President Michel’s commitment to address the scourge of piracy, not just on the open seas but at the root causes on the ground. Both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs have pledged support to the Somali government in developing the local economy through the fishing industry as a means of providing opportunity for the gainful employment of Somali nationals and creating a sustainable industry for the development of the nation as a whole.

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State Visit of Sri Lankan President to Seychelles

State Visit of Sri Lankan President to Seychelles

25.06.2013

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has the great pleasure of announcing the State Visit of His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapaksa of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

At the invitation of President James Michel, President Rajapaksa will be undertaking the visit to Seychelles from the 29^th June to the 1^st July.

The President’s programme will include a call on State House, an address to an Extra Ordinary Session of the National Assembly and a special tree planting ceremony at the Barbarons Biodiversity Centre.

During his visit, President Rajapaksa is expected to oversee the signing of various cooperation agreements with the Government of Seychelles.

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Human Trafficking Committee Refutes US State Department Report

Human Trafficking Committee Refutes US State Department Report

25.06.2013

The Seychelles Committee on Trafficking in Persons have today issued a statement in response to the US State Department's 2013 Report on Trafficking in Persons in which Seychelles is featured and which was rejected by the Government last week, as being poor in its analysis and based on anecdotal evidence.

The Committee, which consisted of representatives from Social Development, Employment, Immigration, Police, Office of the Attorney General, Seychelles Civil Aviation - as well as NGO’s, such as WASO and the NCC and other relevant sectors, described the report as a distortion of the reality on the ground:

“The Committee on Trafficking in Persons (TIP Committee) denounces the narrative of Seychelles in the 2013 report and refers to it as a distortion of the actual situation and reality in the country. A plethora of inaccuracies and misrepresentations have been identified throughout the narrative, which have belittled the efforts being made on the ground to address the problems of trafficking in its local context.”

In their statement, the Committee urged the US State Department to review and address the shortcomings in their reports that would provide for a more accurate account and better help the fight against human trafficking across the globe.

“Whilst aware that the US State Department’s report is aimed at increasing the global efforts to combat trafficking in persons, we do not believe that reporting on uncorroborated and unsubstantiated claims is an appropriate avenue by which this can be achieved. We question the methodology and veracity of the report, and are concerned about the logic and transparency behind the rating system…. We strongly recommend that the US State Department seeks to improve its methodology and develop greater consistency and accuracy in the information reported in order to produce reports that can be used as a basis to assess progress. “

The Committee has said that they have been working with partners to enact their plans, which includes their work with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime on drafting new legislation on human trafficking and developing a National Action Plan on trafficking.

It may be recalled that the Seychelles Government also denounced the 2012 report as being grossly distorted. In an attempt to address issues on the ground and concerns with the US State Department reporting style, the newly convened Committee met with Mr David Campbell, the Political Officer from the US Embassy in Port Louis, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in October 2012. The discussions centred on addressing these concerns and discussing the Action Plans intended to address local issues relating to human trafficking.

Editors Note:

Committee on Trafficking in Persons

Tuesday 25th June 2013

Statement regarding the US State Department’s 2013 report on Trafficking in Persons

For the past two consecutive years, Seychelles has been placed on ‘Tier 2 Watch List’ in the US State Department’s Trafficking in Person’s Annual Report. The Committee on Trafficking in Persons (TIP Committee) denounces the narrative of Seychelles in the 2013 report and refers to it as a distortion of the actual situation and reality in the country. A plethora of inaccuracies and misrepresentations have been identified throughout the narrative, which have belittled the efforts being made on the ground to address the problems of trafficking in its local context.  The TIP Committee is therefore duty-bound to address and refute the unsubstantiated generalizations throughout the narrative.

The report states that child prostitution is commonplace in Seychelles. This is an uncorroborated claim based on anecdotal evidence, which is startling to the Seychellois people given the extensive framework in place for the protection and safeguarding of the rights of children and its level of enforcement. In the period covered by the narrative, there have been no reported cases of child prostitution by victims, concerned citizens or related agencies in Seychelles. Nonetheless, the Social Affairs Department has taken a proactive approach and has been working closely with its partners on issues that have involved minors in sexual activities.

Another perturbing allegation made by the narrative refers to the status of prostitution in Seychelles. The government has acknowledged the occurrence of prostitution, and there have been numerous initiatives both by governmental departments and civil society organisations to provide social support to the vulnerable individuals, and to sensitize the greater public on the dangers that the activity poses. It has been recognised that drugs have played a corollary role on the rise of such activities in the country, and the agencies concerned have taken concrete steps to provide necessary services to drug addicts to protect them from potential sexual exploitation.

Also, featured in the narrative is the case of five Ukrainian women who were allegedly victims of trafficking in Seychelles. Despite full cooperation of the concerned Seychellois agencies to the Ukrainian authorities, and the willingness of the Government to investigate the claim, the lack of official information on the identity of the concerned individuals has resulted in the local investigation being halted.

Furthermore, the TIP Committee is disappointed to note that whilst the narrative discusses the sporadic cases where migrant workers have faced difficult conditions, it ignores the substantial efforts made by the stakeholders in the past year to address such cases when reported and to prevent future occurrences of the same. This includes the reinforcement of the Compliance Division of the Labour Department, which conducts inspections and monitors working conditions of migrant workers.  More scrutiny has also been applied in the recruitment process of migrant workers (i.e. issuance of Gainful Occupation Permits and attestation of contracts). The Labour Department has also been empowered to fast track claims related to exploitation of migrant workers and this has reduced the necessity of higher court involvement through active mediation. It is also worth noting that the necessary legal actions were taken against the companies who were involved in the exploitation migrant workers.

Whilst aware that the US State Department’s report is aimed at increasing the global efforts to combat trafficking in persons, we do not believe that reporting on uncorroborated, unsubstantiated and inaccurate claims is an appropriate avenue by which this can be achieved. We question the methodology and veracity of the report, and are concerned about the logic and transparency behind the rating system. Despite the efforts being made by the authorities to provide all requested factual information to render the report accurate and reflective of the reality of our islands, the TIP Committee questions the motives behind the selection of information featured in the report.  We strongly recommend that the US State Department seeks to improve its methodology and develop greater consistency and accuracy in the information reported in order to produce reports that can be used as a basis to assess progress.

In recognition of the shortcomings that must be urgently addressed to improve the gaps in counter measures related to human trafficking, we have embarked on a series of activities and programmes nationally.  The TIP Committee, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime is drafting legislation on human trafficking, as well as developing a National Action Plan to coordinate local efforts. Through a project under the International Organisation of Migration, workshops for capacity building and awareness raising activities are also being planned for the second half of 2013.

The TIP Committee would like to thank you for taking the time to convey our views on this matter to the relevant authority. We remain committed to the fight against trafficking in persons, and protecting the vulnerable victims of this heinous crime. We reiterate that as long as the discussion on eradicating human trafficking is based on random anecdotes and unsubstantiated claims, the efforts and progress made on this issue will remain meaningless.

Mr Joseph Francois                                                            Mrs Linda William-Melanie

Director General for Protocol,                                       Principal Secretary

Treaties and Consular Affairs                                         Department of Social Affairs

Ministry of Foreign Affairs                                               Ministry of Social Affairs, Community

of the Republic of Seychelles                                           Development and Sports

Co-Chairs of the Committee on Trafficking in Persons

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Seychelles Extends Well Wishes to the Departing and Newly Appointed Amir of Qatar

Seychelles Extends Well Wishes to the Departing and Newly Appointed Amir of Qatar

25.06.2013

President James Michel has extended his sincere appreciation to HH. Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Former Amir of the State of Qatar, following the handing over of the role of Amir to the Heir Apparent, HH. Sheik Tamim Bin Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, whom he has also congratulated as he takes up his new post.

In a letter sent to the outgoing Sheik, President Michel thanked him the close cooperation Qatar and Seychelles enjoy and praised the work he has done in developing the youth of Qatar:

“Your Highness’ investment in the potential of young people, whether in Qatar or around the world, represents an example of far-sighted development planning.  An investment in our young people remains one of the most judicious investments that any state can do.  Your Highness’ development of education, health, culture and sports is one which provides the platform for true people centred development.”

President Michel has also extended his felicitations and well wishes to the new Amir and expressed his anticipation of the strengthening of the bilateral relations between the two states.

It should be recalled that Vice President Danny Faure held wide-ranging talks with HH. Sheil Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the then Heir Apparent of the State of Qatar, during his first official visit to Doha in November 2012.  The two leaders had both expressed their desire to take the relations between the two countries to a new level.

President Michel concluded by wishing both leaders prosperity and good-health in their new undertakings.

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Seychelles and Canada to continue working together on the world stage

Seychelles and Canada to continue working together on the world stage

20.06.2013

Ties between Seychelles and Canada is set to be further strengthened following the accreditation of Marie-Louise Potter as Seychelles’ 6th non-resident High Commissioner to Canada.

High Commissioner Potter presented her letters of accreditation to the Governor General of Canada, His Excellency the Right Honorable David Johnston in a ceremony held at Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Governor General in Ottawa on Monday 10th June.

In welcoming HC Potter Rideau Hall, the Governor General hailed the shared vision that Seychelles and Canada have as members of both the Commonwealth and the Francophonie to work together on the world stage.

In a tete-a-tete following the official presentation, HC Potter acknowledged the strong friendship and excellent relations that have existed between the two countries and thanked the Governor General for the assistance that Seychelles has benefited from Canada over the years. She expressed the desire to further strengthen avenues of cooperation, notably in the field of education where Seychelles can benefit from assistance of Canadian teachers, who the Governor general remarked were in surplus in Canada. Both sides agreed to explore avenues of cooperation between Seychelles’ only university UNISEY and Canadian universities.

HC Potter also congratulated Canada for its remarkable achievement in renewable energy production, an area that she felt Seychelles could benefit from. The Governor General was impressed with the beauty of Seychelles and its uniqueness for being the only granitic islands in the world.

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Eco cycling club continue domination with TTT win

Cycling - 20.06.2013 Eco cycling club continue domination with TTT win Eco cycling cub extended its domination in local races by taking first place in the 48.4km team time trial held lad weekend. The four-lap race, which started at Anse de Genets to Eden Island via the Providence Highway and back, saw the participation of three teams. Eco cycling club, St Francis and Journey were all at the starting line with four riders each. At the finish line it was Eco cycling club with Faddy Confiance, Dominic Arrisol, Chris Germain and Francis Louis finishing first by clocking a time of 1 hour 5 minutes and 50 seconds (1h05:50). Edward Pothin, Ricky Rosalie, Roy Mougal and Andy Rose from St Francis came in second place with a time of 1h06:27) while Peter Alphonse, Ahmad Arrisol, Dean Hoareau and Mario Joubert of Journey cycling club came out third in 1h07:52. With this victory, Eco cycling club continued its winning trend and the question now is can anyone stop them? S. N.

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EU ambassador ends mandate -

EU ambassador ends mandate - 20.06.2013 

The European Union (EU) ambassador to Seychelles, Alessandro Mariani, yesterday paid a farewell call on President James Michel and Vice-President Danny Faure at State House following a four-year tenure.

President James Michel thanked ambassador Mariani for the support and effort he has personally given during his mandate, especially in the fight against piracy, climate change as well as the support extended by various EU-funded programmes within the Indian Ocean Commission, as well as in Seychelles.

“I would like to thank you for all your support during your tenure, particularly your personal commitment to the development of Seychelles and other Indian Ocean island states. The European Union has worked extensively to enhance our country's development in several fields, and we greatly appreciate this partnership,” said President Michel.

Ambassador Mariani expressed his gratitude to the President for the excellent cooperation between Seychelles and the EU, and reviewed some of the significant achievements of this partnership.

“The meeting with President Michel today (yesterday) has been an opportunity to take stock of the excellent relations between Seychelles and the EU, and to take stock of a number of important results we have jointly achieved... The last four years have been important in terms of economic reforms for the country, and the entire international community has recognised the excellent results by Seychelles. There has been a turnaround in the economic structure," said ambassador Mariani.

M Mariani noted that Seychelles and the EU had worked closely in the area of maritime security and piracy, eliminating trade barriers, mitigating climate change, as well as improving prospects for trade through an Interim Economic Partnership Agreement, which will allow Seychelles to maintain full and free (without tax) access to the European markets.

He also added that the introduction of the Schengen visa waiver has allowed Seychellois to travel without visa in the European Union since May 2009.

"I am pleased to have had the opportunity to serve the relations between the European Union and Seychelles at a time which had been extremely important and extremely successful for your country,” said ambassador Mariani.

Mr Mariani furthermore expressed congratulations, on behalf of the European Union, on the celebration of our 20th National Day anniversary. Mr Mariani was based in Mauritius.

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UN trade body’s SG calls on finance minister

C - 20.06.2013 
‘Seychelles has made the right economic decision’

Seychelles has made the right decision in the economic reform programme being carried out in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), according to the secretary general of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Dr Supachai Panitchpakdi.

Invited by the Seychelles government as a guest at the celebration of country’s 20th National Day of the Third Republic, Dr Panitchpakdi made the declaration during a short meeting with Finance, Trade and Investment Minister Pierre Laporte at Liberty House on Monday afternoon.

Dr Panitchpakdi said that by choosing to embark on the reform programme, Seychelles adopted the Austrian economic theory whereby “good decisions are made during bad times”.

He advised the finance minister to remain “economically cautious”, but stated “he believed that at a difficult moment, Seychelles has made the right decision”.

The UNCTAD secretary general mentioned the country’s efficient management of foreign debt and the independence of our financial institutions such as the Central Bank and the Fair Trading Commission as good components of the reform programme which can be a model to other countries.

“Seychelles has been a good example in managing foreign debts, example which can be useful to other countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa). I have also seen very competent people at the Central Bank and the Fair Trading Commission. I would like to see the independence of those institutions being preserved and not absorbed by bureaucracies which would affect their effectiveness. Your country’s good practices can be shared among other countries,” he said.

Minister Laporte responded by saying  it is very important for Seychelles to have the visible support as shown by the UNCTAD, which confirms to both the government and the people that we are doing the right thing.

The finance minister was also thankful to the United Nations agency for its assistance which has come in three main areas: The drafting of the Fair Trading Commission’s competition policy which has brought considerable change in the trade sector since the country recognised the need of a modern framework, the introduction of the computerised customs management system known as ASYCUDA World which the minister feels will be fully operational in a week’s time despite a difficult transition, and the process of Seychelles’ accession to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) which will be completed this year.

Dr Panitchpakdi commented that ASYCUDA World will be beneficial to the Seychelles economy as the quick handling of goods will reduce importation costs.
He said he was hopeful that Seychelles will be admitted to the WTO, admission which he feels will be a good thing as it will offer the opportunity for the country to continue to be a good voice for small island developing states (Sids). 

The UNCTAD secretary general promised that although sometimes life is made hard in the international arena for small economies, his organisation will continue to respond to any extra help our country could need in the areas of trade policy elaboration or staff training, and will maintain its support for any policy towards good business and good governance which will put in place regulatory framework and ease the business market.

“Working with Seychelles has been a great experience. By helping you we are helping other countries by applying the Seychelles experience to those countries,” he concluded.

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UN trade body backs Seychelles’ reforms

President James Michel

| UN trade body backs Seychelles’ reforms - 20.06.2013 The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is very appreciative of the work and reforms that the Seychelles government has carried out since 2008. UNCTAD secretary general Supachai Panitchpakdi made the remark after talks with President James Michel on Monday afternoon. Dr Supachai Panitchpakdi, who was on an official visit to Seychelles, was a special guest at the National Day celebrations on June 18. President Michel thanked Dr Panitchpakdi for the support UNCTAD has extended to Seychelles during its economic reforms, and in particular the secretary general's work to assist small island developing states in making their case for their voices to be heard. "We thank you for championing the voices of small islands developing states, which are often disadvantaged within the international trading system due to their size. We look forward to working with you to develop the blue economy concept for sustainable development which would benefit small island states like Seychelles, oceanic states and coastal countries," said President Michel. The President discussed various areas of possible cooperation with Dr Panitchpakdi, including eco-tourism, as well as reviewing the work it had conducted with the Fair Trade Commission in Seychelles. Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Paul Adam, who accompanied Dr Panitchpakdi to State House, said afterwards that his visit is proof the United Nations want to make sure the concerns of small island developing states like Seychelles are recognised particularly in the international trading system. Dr Panitchpakdi said UNCTAD is satisfied with the work carried out to ensure that consumer rights are protected, to help bring about more competition in business, and that UNCTAD will keep supporting this 'modern framework for a modern economy’. "The achievements since those difficult days have been really testimonial to the kind of efforts Seychelles has put in reforming its economy. UNCTAD is very pleased to see that reforms to put discipline into the market mechanism and fiscal balance have been giving the right results in opening up the economy for competition and to link and to integrate Seychelles economy with the global economy,” he said. UNCTAD’s secretary general said the discussions he has had with President Michel has reassured him of the Seychelles government’s and people’s commitment to the reform process and to maintain good governance which is important to attract new investments and businesses to Seychelles. “We have been delighted to have the opportunity to work with the Seychelles Fair Trading Commission to improve the way that consumer rights can be protected and help bring about the kind of competition among businesses which would result in welfare increases for the people,” Mr Panitchpakdi said. "The model being used in Seychelles is one of the most outstanding framework for market mechanism,” he added.  He said future cooperation with Seychelles will include modernising rules and regulations to make Seychelles more attractive for foreign investments and also to work closer with Seychelles to foster the kind of understanding and visibility of small island developing states in ways that vulnerable issues of these states could be tabled at the global level . “The aim is to have some form of framework that could be used to deal in special and differential manner for the cases of the small island states,” added Dr Panitchpakdi.

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Seychelles backs SADC decision for the continuation of SADC-led mediation process in Madagascar

Seychelles backs SADC decision for the continuation of SADC-led mediation process in Madagascar

19.06.2013

The Seychelles government has supported the decision of the SADC Extraordinary Summit meeting in Maputo, Mozambique, on the 15^th June 2013 to endorsed the decision for the SADC mediators to continue to engage the Malagasy stakeholders, in order to resolve the current deadlock in the political process.

Secretary of State for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Barry Faure, participated in the Summit and reiterated the importance of maintaining the SADC-led mediation efforts and the willingness of Seychelles to continue to assist in the process.

The Extraordinary Summit was held under the chairmanship of the President of Mozambique, Armando Emilio Guebuza, and was called to consider the political and security situation in the DRC, Madagascar and Zimbabwe.

On the issue of Madagascar, SADC’s main concern was the approval by the Special Electoral Court of Madagascar of three illegitimate candidates, namely President Andry Rajoelina, former President Didier Ratsiraka and former first lady Lalao Ravalomanana. To note that as per the Dar es Salaam Declaration, President Rajoelina has to honour the commitment of not standing for the Presidential elections; as for President Ratsiraka and Mrs Ravalomana they are in violation of the constitution and the electoral law of Madagascar.   The Court’s decision has resulted in a deadlock in the electoral process, whereby, the printing of the ballot papers requires a decision on the final list of candidates.

Calls by SADC and the international community for the three candidates to withdraw their candidacy have fallen on deaf ears, thus plunging Madagascar into further crisis. SADC has urged the AU and the international community to exert more political pressure on the three candidates in order to ensure a peaceful conduct of elections and stability in Madagascar.

Looking at other issues on the agenda, the Summit took note of the political situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and new political developments in Zimbabwe. Whilst noting good progress in the deployment of the Intervention Brigade in the Eastern DRC, Summit reiterated the need for political dialogue and diplomatic engagements by all parties.

President Jacob Zuma of South Africa provided a report on the political situation in Zimbabwe in his role as the facilitator on the Zimbabwe Global Political Dialogue.

The latest developments included the following:

-       The constitutional Court of Zimbabwe on 31^st May 2013 ruled that the forthcoming harmonized elections should be held on or before 31^st July 2013;

-       On 13 June 2013 President Mugabe issued a proclamation fixing 31^st July as the date of the harmonized presidential parliamentary and local government elections and fixing 28^th June 2013 as the date for the sitting of the nomination court;

-       President Mugabe invoked the Presidential powers act thereby bypass the current parliament in order to conform to the decision of the constitutional court.

The latest development has caused political dispute as it is considered fraught with legal contestation and heightened tensions even within the inclusive government. The Summit heard and reflected on reports from the members of the inclusive government. The meeting endorsed President Jacob Zuma’s recommendations addressing the conditions that had to be respected and attained before the elections are held in Zimbabwe, and, whilst being careful not to interfere with the sovereign laws of the member state and the independence of its courts, agreed on a position that will bring the parties together in order to minimize the tensions and carve out a roadmap that is realistic, that meets the concerns of the different parties and reassures the citizens of Zimbabwe. In particular, the Government of Zimbabwe agreed to make an intervention with the courts in order to make the necessary adjustments.

The Director General for Development and Regional Integration in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kenneth Racombo, also participated in the SADC Extraordinary Summit.

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Seychelles flicks switch on first renewable energy project

New Masdar wind farm funded by Abu Dhabi development fund will help island nation cut costs of importing diesel

By Jessica Shankleman

18 Jun 2013

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If you're planning to take a holiday in the Seychelles this year, you'll be pleased to hear your visit will be a bit greener, thanks to a major new wind farm on the island of Mahé.

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Abu Dhabi's state-owned green energy company Masdar yesterday cut the ribbon on the Seychelles' first major renewable energy project, designed to help the archipelago curb its reliance on expensive and carbon-intensive diesel generators.

The 6MW wind farm in Port Victoria is expected to displace 5,500 tons of carbon dioxide a year by reducing the need for 1.6 million litres of diesel fuel. As diesel accounts for a quarter of the island nation's imports, the move is expected to significantly cut energy bills.

The project was built by Masdar and funded through a reported Dh102.8m (£18m) grant provided by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development – a government entity that aims to improve living standards in developing nations.

"This project builds on Masdar's commitment to demonstrating the economic and environmental advantages of renewable energy," said Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE minister of state and chief executive of Masdar.

"With prices falling and new advancements in technology, renewable energy is reaching grid parity in many parts of the world. With energy demand expected to double by 2030 – putting a further strain on our natural resources – renewable energy is a viable solution to power future growth."

James Michel, president of the Republic of Seychelles, said the wind farm would take the island state a step closer to meeting its target of generating 15 per cent of its energy from renewables by 2030.

"Access to sustainable, clean sources of energy is vital to our long-term economic development," he said. "The addition of wind power is a major step toward meeting our clean energy targets and reducing our dependency on imported sources of power. We look forward to further opportunities to assess our wind power potential and continue to diversify our energy mix."

Masdar added that The Port Victoria Wind Farm was also an engineering feat for the company as it had to install eight wind turbines, on two separate islands and connect the wind farm with three kilometres of subsea cables.

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Seychelles Welcomes AU Commission Chairperson

Seychelles Welcomes AU Commission Chairperson

13.06.2013

The Government of Seychelles has today welcomed Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission to Seychelles for a three-day official visit as a special guest of the National Day celebrations.

Dr. Dlamini-Zuma was met by Vice President Danny Faure and a greeting party that included Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Paul Adam, Minister for Tourism and Culture Alain St, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Barry Faure, the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Maurice Loustau-Lalanne, and the Seychelles Permanent Representative to the African Union Ambassador Joseph Nourrice.

“It is a great honour to welcome the AU Commission Chairperson to Seychelles for our National Day celebrations, “ said Minister Adam,

“This visit is particularly auspicious given that it is taking place in the year the AU is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary. It is an opportunity to show Dr. Dlamini-Zuma what successes’, experience, and contributions Seychelles makes to the collective success of the continent.”

The Chairperson’s programme includes a call on President Michel, an address to the Members of the National Assembly during a special session, as well as her attendance of other key National Day activities.

Dr. Dlamini-Zuma will be in Seychelles till the 15^th June.

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Cycling

Cycling

| Cyclisme : 32e Tour de Maurice - 11.06.2013 Dominique Arrisol 3ème meilleur jeune, 7ème au général Sixième lors de l’étape reine du 32e Tour de Maurice, le jeune Seychellois Dominique Arrisol a terminé sur le podium du classement jeune et 7ème au général avec un temps cumulé de 13 heures, 48 minutes et 57 secondes. Le meilleur coureur seychellois lors des 7 étapes et 527,3 kilomètres parcourus dans l’île sœur, Dominique Arrisol a terminé le Tour avec un retard de 16 minutes et 42 secondes sur le vainqueur, le Mauricien Yannick Lincoln (VCJCC-Bank One) qui a éclaboussé de toute sa classe cette 32e édition avec un temps de 13 heures, 32 minutes et 15 secondes pour son cinquième sacre dans cette compétition. Le vainqueur le plus titré du Tour de Maurice et porteur du maillot jaune du Swan Group, Lincoln a signé aussi une troisième victoire de suite après 2011 et 2012. Ses deux premières victoires étaient en 2005 et 2007. Le Seychellois Dominique Arrisol peut être fier de ses résultats puisqu’il n’était qu’à sa deuxième participation à ce Tour après ses débuts l’année dernière lorsqu’il avait terminé 46ème. « Je suis très fier de moi-même. C’est seulement ma deuxième participation au Tour de Maurice et je suis content de ma progression par rapport à l’année dernière. Terminer 3ème chez les jeunes et 7ème au général est pour moi un très bon résultat et je remercie mon coach Joseph Clothilde qui m’a beaucoup poussé à l’entraînement. J’ai 20 ans et je sais que je peux rouler encore plus vite », nous a dit Dominique lors d’une conversation téléphonique. Lui qui a roulé avec les meilleurs coureurs de l’Océan Indien et des costauds venus de l’Afrique du Sud tout au long du Tour, a ajouté que le niveau du Tour était très relevé. « Le niveau du Tour est très relevé. Ce sont des costauds ! Après les résultats obtenus cette année je ne peux plus reculer, je n'ai plus qu'à m'entraîner. Mon objectif est de m’entraîner plus fort, surtout sur les cols, pour espérer terminer parmi les trois premiers au général l’année prochaine », a-t-il renchéri.   Sur la plus longue étape d’une distance de 124,7 kilomètres courue dimanche, Dominique Arrisol a traversé la ligne d’arrivée au Plaza à Rose-Hill en 6ème position avec un temps de 3 heures, 32 minutes et 58 secondes, soit un retard de 8 minutes et 10 secondes sur le vainqueur de l’étape Yannick Lincoln (3 heures, 24 minutes et 48 secondes). Edward Pothin (3 heures, 40 minutes et 31 secondes), Bertrand Lesperance (3 heures, 47 minutes et 34 secondes), Francis Louis (4 heures, 08 minutes et 49 secondes) et Ahmad Arissol (4 heures, 08 minutes et 49secondes) ont terminé 13ème, 31ème, 46ème et 48ème respectivement lors de cette 7ème et dernière étape. Dans le classement jeune, Dominique Arrisol est monté sur la troisième marche du podium derrière le Sud-Africain Alan Gordon (OwnSurance-V-Office avec un temps de 13 heures, 39 minutes et 31 secondes) et le Mauricien Olivier Cron (BRSC Isostar avec un temps de 13 heures, 45 minutes et 33 secondes). Gordon a donc remporté le maillot blanc de Logidis. Edward Pothin a terminé 9ème avec un temps de 14 heures, 05 minutes et 45 secondes, et Ahmad Arissol 17ème avec un temps de 14 heures, 45 minutes et 31 secondes. Dominique Arrisol figure aussi dans le classement montagne, terminant 9ème avec 10 points – 58 points en moins que Yannick Lincoln (68 points), le vainqueur du maillot à pois de la Municipalité de Port-Louis. Mike Chong Chin (66 points) et Alan Gordon (63 points) ont pris les 2ème et 3ème places. Dans  le classement par points, Dominique Arrisol a accumulé 11 points pour prendre la 10ème place derrière le grand Lincoln (59 points) qui a endossé le maillot noir d’Archemics/Wynn's. Adolphe Krige (46 points) et Alan Gordon (42 points) ont complété le podium. Dans le classement par équipes, l’équipe des Seychelles a terminé 5ème sur 12 formations avec un temps cumulé de 41 heures, 34 minutes et 07 secondes. C’est l’équipe BRSC Isostar qui a remporté les casquettes du Tour du Swan Group avec un temps de 40 heures, 46 minutes et 22 secondes. Le classement final des cyclistes seychellois : Dominique Arissol, 7ème avec un temps de 13 heures, 48 minutes et 57 secondes Edward Pothin, 16ème avec un temps de 14 heures, 05 minutes et 45 secondes Bertrand Lesperance, 33ème avec un temps de 14 heures, 29 minutes et 29 secondes Francis Louis, 39ème avec un temps de 14 heures, 41 minutes et 37 secondes Ahmad Arissol, 42ème avec un temps de 14heures, 45 minutes et 31 secondes G. G.

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Seychelles wishes Mandela well as he convalesces

Seychelles wishes Mandela well as he convalesces - 11.06.2013 

President James Michel has, on behalf of the people of Seychelles, extended his well wishes to former South African President Nelson Mandela during his recovery from a recent illness.

                                

In a letter sent, President Michel spoke about the great affection felt by the Seychellois people towards the South African leader.

“As you heal and rest, you remain in the prayers and thoughts of the Seychellois people who hold a lot of affection and admiration for you.

“I am convinced that the courage, strength and resilience that you have shown for so many years while promoting peace, reconciliation, democracy, freedom and justice will prevail and that you will soon get back to the best of your health to continue inspiring millions around the world.”

The President ended by extending his personal wishes of good health and happiness to Mr Mandela for many years to come.

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Special mass marks Bishop French’s 50 years of priesthood

| Special mass marks Bishop French’s 50 years of priesthood - 11.06.2013 Bishop French Chang-Him celebrated his golden jubilee of priesthood on Sunday in a lively and touching thanksgiving mass at the St Paul’s Cathedral. A host of personalities, among whom President James Michel, attended a special thanksgiving mass on Sunday in honour of Anglican Bishop French Chang-Him as he celebrated 50 years of priesthood. The ceremony took place at the St Paul’s Cathedral. The three-hour ceremony was attended by President James Michel, former President James Mancham, Designated Minister Vincent Meriton, Minister for Education Macsuzy Mondon, members of the judiciary, family members, friends and members of the Anglican congregation and of other denominations. Bishop French was ordained on June 9, 1963 as the first Seychellois Anglican priest, and was consecrated the first Anglican Bishop of Port Victoria in 1979. He was also elected Archbishop of the Indian Ocean Province in 1984. Bishop French retired in 2004 but is still in charge of St John’s parish at Glacis and presides at services, including weddings, baptism and funerals. He is also very active member of various organisations such as Friends of Prison, the National Council for the Disabled and the National Council for Children and Seychelles Inter-faith Council. During the ceremony, touching testimonies were read by those close to him, describing him as a great role model and as a man who has been through tough times but who has remained strong in faith and committed to his work. After songs of praise, prayers, readings from the Old and New Testaments and the Gospel were read, Bishop French knelt down in front of the altar to receive blessings while all priests gathered around him. He then received gifts from the various Anglican parishes, staff of the Anglican Diocese, the organisations he forms part of, friends and other individuals. Bishop French thanked all those who have been supportive throughout his 50-year journey. He added that his active involvement in the non-governmental organisations have helped to enrich his life.

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GLISPA looks to EU islands to fulfil founders' dream

GLISPA looks to EU islands to fulfil founders' dream

06.06.2013

The Seychelles-led Global Island Partnership (GLISPA) on conservation and sustainable livelihoods is reaching out to Europe's territories around the world to further build an alliance of islands regardless of size or political status.

GLISPA was born out of a call by the leaders of Seychelles and Palau, Presidents James Michel and Tommy Remengesau respectively, at the 2005 Mauritius conference on small island developing states (SIDS) for island nations and communities and countries which have islands to come together to help each other solve island conservation and sustainability challenges.

SIDS have since been joined in the partnership by non-independent islands and island initiatives such as the British Virgin Islands and the Hawaii Green Growth Initiative as well as friends from the global NGO community and various United Nations agencies and bodies which deal with island and ocean issues.

Mr Jumeau, Seychelles' Ambassador for Climate Change and SIDS Issues who is President Michel's representative on, and chair of the GLISPA Steering Committee, and Partnership Coordinator Kate Brown last month spent a week in Brussels further engaging with Europe's overseas island territories through the European Commission and Parliament.

The Ambassador joined the Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for Europe's overseas Pacific territories, Mr Maurice Ponga of New Caledonia, in co-chairing a round table on the challenges the EU islands face and how a partnership such as GLISPA could help.

Seychelles' Brussels-based Ambassador to the EU Vivianne Fock-Tave, the chair of Europe's Overseas Countries and Territories Association (OCTA), several MEPs, senior officials from the European Commission's various directorates and representatives of the IUCN-World Conservation Union (International Union for Conservation of Nature) took part in the round table at the European Parliament in Brussels.

Amb Jumeau explained it was an opportune time for GLISPA to strengthen its relationship with Europe's overseas islands given the fast-growing emphasis on oceans and marine and coastal biodiversity and ecosystem services following last year's Rio+20 conference, and in the lead up to the next global conference on SIDS in Samoa next year.  2014 is also the International Year of Small Island Developing States.

"GLISPA is placing island biodiversity, sustainable livelihoods and oceans at the centre of the sustainable development debate," Mr Jumeau said.  "Conversations on these issues should not be carried out separately."

Urging islands to work together regardless of their political status, Amb Jumeau stressed, "Now is the time for islands across the globe to step up and step forward on common issues to ensure that island and marine and coastal biodiversity, and the future regime that is being discussed for the oceans, remain an integral part of the debate on sustainable development post-2015."

Mr Jumeau and Ms Brown, accompanied by Carole Martinez, IUCN's project coordinator for Europe's Outermost Regions and Overseas Countries and Territories and a member of the GLISPA Steering Committee who helped organise the visit, also had separate meetings with the European Union's Commissioner for Environment Janez Potocnik and top officials of other EU directorates over several days.

Amb Jumeau pointed out to the MEPs and EU officials he met that through their exclusive economic zones, the SIDS, whose EEZs make them large ocean states, and the EU's overseas island territories are together responsible for the stewardship of a vast proportion of the world's oceans and seas.

These EEZs together made up a far bigger carbon sink than all of Earth's forests put together, absorbing much more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than trees ever could, he said.

More sustainably managed they could thus have a huge effect in tackling climate change while at the same time strengthening food security and social welfare, providing jobs and economic wealth, and more effectively protecting island, coastal and marine biodiversity.

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The IMO Supports the Blue Economy Concept

The IMO Supports the Blue Economy Concept

06.06.2013

Foreign Minister Jean-Paul Adam has met with the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Koji Sekimizu, on the margins of the fifth Tokyo International Conference on African Development Summit (TICAD V) that took place in Yokohama, Japan, from the 1^st to 3^rd of May 2013.

Their discussions centered on the importance of placing the blue economy on the TICAD as well as post-2015 development agenda. Both Minister Adam and Mr. Sekimizu stressed the need for ‘blue growth’ and the vast potential Africa’s oceans and marine resources can offer for its further socio-economic development.

They agreed that this depends on Africa’s readiness to protect and preserve its surrounding waters, as well as greater maritime development in regards to its fisheries and shipping sectors.

The Secretary General mentioned that the IMO has since many years moved beyond its traditional focus on maritime safety and security, to environmental responsibility. Currently it is seeking to encourage sustainable practices within the international shipping community.

Minister Adam welcomed this stance, and highlighted Seychelles’ key focus on bringing the significance of the blue economy to the attention of Africa, as well as the international community.

During the meetings, the Minister and the Secretary also discussed the progress of various projects that the IMO is helping to implement in Seychelles, including the ongoing implementation of a Navtex broadcasting system and the construction of a jetty at the Maritime Training Centre.

The Minister also reiterated Seychelles’ determination to achieve White List certification, and indicated that we are working hard on the necessary procedures to realize this

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Liberation heroes honoured on 36th anniversary

Liberation heroes honoured on 36th anniversary - 06.06.2013 

Wreaths were laid yesterday at the Zonm Lib monument to pay tribute to the country’s June 5 liberation heroes.

Vice-President Danny Faure, who is also the secretary general of the ruling Parti Lepep, led the party’s representatives from all districts in the country for the wreath-laying ceremony, which formed part of activities to mark Liberation Day.

Mr Faure was accompanied by a youth Miguel Bastienne and Parti Lepep’s proportionally elected member in the National Assembly Maria Payet-Marie.

After Mr Faure, central committee members then each laid a rose at the monument followed by representatives of all the districts and other movements of the ruling party, to the tune of patriotic songs such as Sesel O mon pei played by the national brass band.

During the ceremony, there were performances by the ruling party’s youths.

Marie-Ange Denis, Vanessa Seth and Joseph François traced back the journey from Liberation until today.
At the end of the colourful ceremony, all who took part in the wreath-laying posed for a souvenir photo with Mr Faure in front of the Zonm Lib, while the crowd of supporters sang and danced patriotic and party songs.

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Air Seychelles and Czech Airlines announce strategic partnership

Air Seychelles and Czech Airlines announce strategic partnership - 06.06.2013 

Air Seychelles and Czech Airlines have signed a codeshare agreement to link Prague and Seychelles, a joint press release from the two airlines has announced. 

The partnership between Seychelles’ national airline and the flag carrier of the Czech Republic allows passengers of the two airlines to book and travel between Prague and the Seychelles on one ticket, connecting in Abu Dhabi.

Initially, the agreement will see Air Seychelles place its ‘HM’ code on three of Czech Airlines’ flights per week between Prague and Abu Dhabi.

Czech Airlines will similarly place its ‘OK’ code on three of Air Seychelles’ flights per week between the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi. 

The arrangement gives European travellers immediate access to two flights a week from Prague to Seychelles via Abu Dhabi, and to one flight a week from Seychelles to Prague via Abu Dhabi.
Cramer Ball, Air Seychelles’ chief executive officer, said: “The Seychelles has seen a surge in arrivals from Central and Eastern Europe in recent years and I'm delighted to forge a partnership with Czech Airlines, an important player in the region.

“With this new agreement, the Seychelles has access to the city of Prague and attractive destinations beyond in Central and Eastern Europe operated by Czech Airlines, such as Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and Scandinavia.

“We are confident the schedule will appeal to travellers throughout Central and Eastern Europe, thereby providing a source of revenue that will contribute to the future of Air Seychelles, Seychelles tourism and our home economy.

“It is also thrilling to note that we have connected three Unesco world heritage sites: the Seychelles, with its two natural wonders, Aldabra and the Vallée de Mai, and Prague, a cultural wonder, known for its beauty and historical significance.”

Philippe Moreels, Czech Airlines’ President, said: "The partnership with Air Seychelles brings to Czech Airlines’ clients a new, smoother way to travel to the Seychelles, a destination with increasing demand in Central Europe. And vice versa, Prague becomes closer and more easily accessible from the Seychelles.

“Thanks to perfect connectivity in Abu Dhabi, the two companies are able to offer attractive regular service, with a plan to increase the frequency of flights in future. This goes hand in hand with our intention to further develop Czech Airlines’ route between Prague and Abu Dhabi.

Subject to regulatory approval, the airlines plan to expand the scope of the agreement to include more destinations in their respective networks.

Tickets can be purchased online via airseychelles.com or www.czechairlines.com. Alternatively, tickets can be booked through the Czech Airlines Contact Center at 800 31 310 (within Czech Republic) or +420 239 007 007, the Air Seychelles Call Center at +248 4 38 10 13, by visiting the airlines’ sales offices, or through a travel agent.

Prague-Seychelles Flight Schedule:

Flight No. Departs Departure Time Arrives Arrival Time Frequency
OK 350/HM 5071 Prague 23:25 Abu Dhabi  07:30+1 Monday
OK 352/HM 5073 Prague 12:05 Abu Dhabi 20:10 Wednesday
HM 019/OK 3290 Abu Dhabi 08:20 Seychelles 12:55 Tuesday
HM 087/OK 3296 Abu Dhabi 02:00 Seychelles 06:35 Thursday

Seychelles-Prague Flight Schedule:

Flight No. Departs Departure Time Arrives Arrival Time Frequency
HM 086/OK 3291 Seychelles 15:40 Abu Dhabi 20:10 Sunday
OK 353/HM 5070 Abu Dhabi 01:40 Prague 06:10 Monday

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President Michel holds talks with Japan’s PM

President Michel holds talks with Japan’s PM - 06.06.2013 

President James Michel has held bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the margins of the Ticad V conference in Yokohama, Japan. 

The President was accompanied by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jean-Paul Adam, Seychelles’ non-resident ambassador to Japan, Philippe Le Gall, and Seychelles’ honorary consul general Norifumi Matsumoto.

The President commended Japan for developing excellent cooperation and friendship with the countries of Africa and fostering strategic partnerships for economic growth.

Mr Michel noted that Seychelles and Japan enjoy excellent relations as both share the same values in terms of developing their green and blue economies.

"We share the same aspirations, and this has contributed towards fruitful discussions with various agencies of the Japanese government. I would like to express our gratitude for the assistance Japan has given Seychelles for the development of our fisheries sector, particularly artisanal fisheries.  This has helped us to develop our self-reliance. The project for the 7th Fisheries Grant of the Japanese government for the extension of the Providence fishing port will be of great benefit to our fishermen and the economy,” said President Michel.

The President also thanked Japan for the technical assistance Seychelles has received for the prevention of coastal erosion and climate change.

“I believe that in partnership with the Japanese government and private sectors we can develop renewable energy projects, especially solar energy," said President Michel.

President Michel thanked Prime Minister Abe for Japan’s support in the fight against piracy as well as for the technical assistance Seychelles received from Japan following the tropical storm Felleng which caused flooding in January this year.

Prime Minister Abe expressed his sympathy to the people affected by this natural disaster and said Japan would continue to aid Seychelles in the area of flood control and coastal erosion.

Prime Minister Abe noted that the efforts of Seychelles and other countries in the region had contributed towards the decrease in piracy activity off the coast of Somalia and added that Japan would continue to support Seychelles in the fight against piracy as well as the prosecution of pirates.

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