Seychelles new Carnival song 2014 is out! - Listen to it and radio stations can use it freely

Seychelles new Carnival song 2014 is out! - Listen to it and radio stations can use it freely

       

Please find below the direct Link to the Carnaval Song on Facebook :

       The Link has been placed on the following Facebook Pages :

 

·        https://www.facebook.com/The.Seychelles.Islands

 

·        https://www.facebook.com/seychelles.tourismboard

 

           Just click on the Link on facebook to listen to the song.

https://soundcloud.com/seychelles-tourism-board/travis-julienne-ole-ola-en-sel

 

Seychelles new carnival song has been released two months or so leading up to carnival. “Ole Ola en sel lavwa’’ immediately made its debut on Seychelles radio stations after its launching on Friday 21^st February. Travis Julienne, the song composer and singer said “Ole Ola en sel lavwa’’ is a colourful vibration of carnival time.

“The season of carnival is the most exciting time for everyone. We wanted to break new ground with a song that brings the samba party mood in Seychelles. Though it sounds Brazilian, the song is a fusion of moutya, Zouk and soca’’ Travis explained.

Carnival International de Victoria that is staged in Seychelles annually is one of the very few events that bring people of all races, of all colours, of all religious beliefs and of different political ideology together.The Seychelles iconic Carnaval International de Victoria propels this philosophy. Travis, said that “Ole Ola’’ is a universal carnival language that people of different cultures can understand.

“Music is a universal language. People coming from all corners of the world, participating in this year’s carnival can join together to sing ‘Ole Ola’. It is only through music that we can bring all nations together’’.

In 2013, Travis and his team started composing the song. This year, they joined together to put the final touches to its lyric and music. It was during the launching of the Carnival Countdown, that “Ole Ola en sel lavwa’’ was announced as the Carnival’s song 2014. Travis was presented with his Rs35,000 cash prize by Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture. Alias DMC Tag, his DJ name on Paradise FM, where he is currently working, Travis was on Tuesday 25^th February in Bonzour Sesel, the Seychelles television Big Breakfast show.

 

Photo Caption; Travis Julienne, first Prize winner of Seychelles Carnival song 2014 with Minister Alain St.Ange

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African Anglican Bishops meet with President Michel

African Anglican Bishops meet with President Michel

Thu, 27 February 2014

President James Michel met with the Secretary General of the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa (CAPA) at State House, this morning. Rt. Reverend Kaiso is in Seychelles conducting training sessions for about 40 bishops from the Anglican dioceses of Uganda, Kenya, Sudan, as well as Seychelles.

He was accompanied by Rt. Reverend Joel Waweru, Rt. Reverend Anthony Poggo, Ret. Reverend Stephen Kaziimba and Reverend Danny Elizabeth.

The President welcomed Rt. Reverend Kaiso and his delegation to Seychelles and stressed the importance of having good working relations between the Government and all the different religious denominations in the country in order to promote national unity.

Bishop Kaiso briefed the President on the fruitful sessions they have had so far with the Anglican church leaders from the continent of Africa. He also noted how impressed he is to see the good working relationship between the different religious leaders, as well as with the Government.

President Michel and Rt. Reverend Kaiso further discussed  the social and moral challenges within society and in Africa. They spoke about the need to rejuvenate and rehabilitate the moral and religious values among the people of Seychelles and find ways to develop the social and spiritual values of children.

“… We talked about how schools are critical because those are critical points of formation for young children and also how the churches' religious institutions can play a critical role, and the role of families also in the formation of these children and the importance of having dialogue around areas of difference. You may not all agree on everything but the way to live with our differences is to have dialogue so that we can come to some common solution in a much peaceful and amicable way,” said Rt. Reverend Kaiso in a press interview  after the meeting with the President.

Also present at the meeting was the Secretary General of the Office of the Executive Office of the President, Mrs. Lise Bastienne.

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Seychelles says no military bases on sovereign territory

Seychelles says no military bases on sovereign territory

27.02.2014

The Government of the Republic of Seychelles would like to clarify reports which appeared in some online media outlets about Russia establishing a militaey base in Seychelles.

The  Seychelles Government would like to clarify that there is no intention to have any military base for any country on its territory.  However Seychelles is a nation that works closely with many countries including the Russian Federation on issues such as maritime security and welcomes joint patrols and surveillance of its Exclusive Economic Zone and the surrounding maritime region.

Seychelles is also working closely with Russia to increase the number of ships that Russia deploys to Seychelles and to the region to reinforce the shared maritime security of the region and has offered Russia use of Port Victoria for its logistics, refueling, and rest of its crews.

Seychelles offers the same facilities to many nations that participate in the joint patrol and surveillance of its maritime zone and of the wider region.  We hope that this statement clarifies the status of negotiations referred to in the context of Seychelles.

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President meets with Superior General of Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny Congregation

President meets with Superior General of Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny Congregation

Thu, 27 February 2014

The Superior General of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny, Sister Claire Houareau, paid a courtesy call on President James Michel at State House, this morning. Sister Claire, a Seychellois national, is in the country on an official visit and was accompanied by Sister Nita Servina and Sister Alice Vivien from the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny, Seychelles.

The President congratulated Sister Claire on her work in her post as the head of the congregation, which is based in Paris. Sister Claire was appointed the Head of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny in Paris, France in 2012.

Sister Claire spoke about the changes she has seen in Seychelles after a long absence from the country and the importance as Christians to be more understanding and to help others.

Speaking to the national press, Sister Claire said, “I have a lot of faith in the people of Seychelles, especially the youth. After 13 years of absence from the country; I can see that it has developed, a lot of things have changed, especially on the material and facility level. Those that have gone to study abroad and have returned are responsible for important posts in the country and are taking the leadership roles.  It’s a pity, though, from what I’ve seen, that the society has become more materialistic, maybe more individualistic and does not think of others enough. But I hope that with time, our young people will realize this in view that there are needs in our country, social ills that those young people need to see and solve it. After all, it is our people and if we do not resolve those problems then we are not attending to all our responsibilities as Christian,”.

The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny is an international missionary congregation of the Roman Catholic Church, which has had a presence in Seychelles for more than 150 years.

Also present at the meeting was the Secretary General of the Office of the Executive Office of the President, Mrs. Lise Bastienne and Chief Press Secretary, Ms. Srdjana Janosevic.

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Air Seychelles has a very bright future

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Thu, 27 February 2014

President James Michel met with the outgoing CEO of Air Seychelles, Cramer Ball, and newly appointed CEO, Manoj Papa, at State House this morning. The Minister for Home Affairs and Transport Joel Morgan was also present.

President Michel thanked Mr. Ball for his two-year tenure and congratulated him on a 'great job' in leading Air Seychelles to profitability. In February 2013, the airline was able to report a net profit of US$ 1 million, a remarkable turnaround after three consecutive years of losses. The year culminated in the airline receiving the prestigious four-star rating from Skytrax.

Mr Ball thanked the President for his support and his vision to bring changes to the airline.

"There have been some incredible moments, and I'm very proud to say, as the outgoing CEO, that I've been part of a wonderful team, a wonderful family with the Air Seychelles team...Air Seychelles has a huge opportunity and a very bright future," said Mr Ball.

Mr. Michel also welcomed the new CEO to Seychelles and expressed confidence that he would create new partnerships for the national airline in order to expand its routes and consolidate its achievements so far.

" I'm quite excited to pick up on the results of the team.. the results, the turnaround has been amazing and I think the challenge for me and my team is to build that to the next level.... Although we are a four star airline, we need to behave like a five star airline in everything that we do...we have the chance of positioning ourselves as the best airline in Africa... and as we grow, globally, " said Mr. Papa.

South African national Manoj Papa joins Air Seychelles from South African Airways, where he held the position of Acting General Manager: Commercial. Previously he worked for Etihad airways

South African Airways is currently ranked the best airline in Africa, while Air Seychelles is in second position.

Air Seychelles has a strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, which is a 40 per cent stakeholder.

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Ministry of Education accelerates its process to pilot Programme Performance Based Budgeting

Education e-News       26.02.14

Ministry of Education accelerates its process to pilot

Programme Performance Based Budgeting

Education Senior Management and other Education officials during one of the sessions with World Bank Specialists

The Minister of Education and Senior Officials of the Ministry are participating in workshops being facilitated by a World Bank team expected to continue to develop procedures, tools and capacity necessary to implement Programme Performance Based Budgeting PPBB from 2015. The World Bank team leader Patrick Kabuya stated that the objective of the two week mission from 17^th to 28^th February 2014 is to support the Ministry and its agencies to develop Portfolio Medium Term Expenditure strategies necessary to inform the 2015 budget.  

Specifically, the strategies, which form part of PPBB formulation process, serves as a base that will enable the Ministry and its agencies to effectively allocate resources apportioned by the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Investment to priority areas necessary to achieve the Ministry's objectives.

The Ministry is one of the two Ministries that the Government has designated to pilot implementation of PPBB from 2015: a reform meant to enhance allocation of government resources to priority areas and improve achievement of results for the benefit of Seychellois.

The other members of the World Bank Team include Alta Folscher, Adrienne Shall and Mary Betley

For more Information please contact:

 Nadine Jack. Ms | Principal Information & Communication Officer | Public Relations & Communication Office

Ministry of Education | P O Box 48 | Mont Fleuri | Mahe | Seychelles | Tel: office (+248) 4 28 3266 | Mobile (+248) 2 722495
Email: njack@eduhq.edu.sc  | nadinejack82@gmail.com | Website: www.edu.gov.sc 

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Carnival of Carnivals in the Seychelles receives confirmation that Notting Hill Carnival of the UK will again be present with new costumes from five costumed groups

Carnival of Carnivals in the Seychelles receives confirmation that Notting Hill Carnival of the UK will again be present with new costumes from five costumed groups

The Notting Hill Carnival Roadshow Company of the UK will again be at the Carnaval International de Victoria in Seychelles, the carnival now referred to by the International Press as the Carnival of Carnivals. The news has been well received by Seychelles where their annual carnival attracts all the best and most popular carnivals to parade together and followed by cultural troupes from the Community of Nations.

The Carnaval International de Victoria brings countries together and gives a rare opportunity to tourism destinations participating with a cultural troupe to raise their profile through culture and in so doing through their people. International Press continue to fly to the Seychelles in great numbers to cover this unique carnival that is staged annually under the theme of the ,melting pot of cultures'.

The Notting Hill Carnival Roadshow Company is a collection of Carnival artists from the United Kingdom who are central to the staging of the annual Notting Hill Carnival, the largest carnival in Europe. Some of those who founded the very first Notting Hill Carnival in 1964 still participate in the Roadshow as it moves from town to town and across borders, uniting and integrating people through the medium of the carnival celebration.

"Over the years, the Notting Hill Carnival has developed a strong brand and identity that is unique in that not only does it reflect the many cultures found in the UK, but through the performance of its arts, it continues to make a statement that each person has a right and responsibility to celebrate carnival that celebrates and commemorates the rights and freedoms fought for by our ancestors. Our emphasis is on inclusivity in which we celebrate together, young and old, rich and poor, those who are able-bodied as well those with physical challenges – together, We are the people of Carnival” said a representative of the Notting Hill Carnival Roadshow Company of the UK.

"This year we will bring new costumes from five costumed groups, representing an array of themes, one being the ‘Celebration of Mama Africa’, another being ‘Music of the Caribbean’. We will also be showcasing the world renowned samba group, Paraiso de Samba; the innovative moves from the men of Soca Jazz Dance; the melodious sounds of Caribbean Steel International and the hot and vibrant beats of DJ Antonn. 

In terms of beauty, creativity, innovation and performance each year we aim to surpass previous standards and make an impression and meaningful contribution to the development of Carnaval International de Victoria, Seychelles which provides an unique and enriching experience for all participants by promoting carnival across borders" the representative of the Notting Hill Carnival Roadshow Company of the UK said.

Photo Caption: Notting Hill Carnival of the UK getting ready for the coming Carnival in Seychelles

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EIGHT KNOWLEDGE CONFERENCES TO ENHANCE YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGIC VISION

EIGHT KNOWLEDGE CONFERENCES TO ENHANCE YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGIC VISION Is public-private partnership a sustainable paradigm for the agri-business? How productive linkages can be shaped to transform the extractive industry? Capital-intensive partnership: what are the most pertinent tools to support company’s growth? Eight knowledge conferences will explore and discuss these practical issues amongst others during the AFRICA CEO FORUM. Structured around the four high-level plenary sessions, the eight knowledge conferences of the AFRICA CEO FORUM aim at presenting concrete trends and strategies in management and company growth. “These topics prove to be very relevant to businessmen and investors who wish to think ‘out of the box’. The format is a dazzling toolkit. It relies on the tremendous experience of iconic CEOs who will propose significant strategies in regard to the company management and identify key growth drivers in different sectors,” says Amir BEN YAHMED, President of the AFRICA CEO FORUM. African and international experts will lead this dynamic format which offers noteworthy case-studies and substantial debates with the audience. They will address eight key issues listed below: • Agriculture, agribusiness: becoming a key player in the market • Natural resources: the local challenge  • Construction and real estate: opportunities of a booming market  • Building a brand: the new communication challenges • Opening the door to investors • Financial integration in Africa: conditions for creating African champions • Challenges and opportunities for “family businesses” in Africa • CEO dialogue More... Over 700 international and African key stakeholders will attend theAFRICA CEO FORUM and discuss issues featuring the African private sector expansion.

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Seychelles and MIOT Hospitals sign New Training Partnership

Seychelles and MIOT Hospitals sign New Training Partnership

Wed, 12 February 2014

The Seychelles Government and MIOT Hospitals, India, have concluded an agreement for the provision of medical training, during the visit of Vice President Danny Faure and his delegation to Chennai. The Vice President represented President James Michel as Chief Guest at the 15th Anniversary of the MIOT Hospitals.
Following negotiations on a new cooperation framework between the Republic of Seychelles and MIOT Hospitals, the Vice President said that MIOT International Hospitals will annually provide an agreed number of post graduate programmes to Seychellois doctors and training to medical students at no cost to the Seychelles Government. He added that MIOT will also provide training to other health professionals in several areas.

Vice  President Faure thanked MIOT Hospitals for choosing Seychelles as the first country it will partner with in order to establish a medical university hospital. He said that the MOU was a milestone in consolidating the new partnership.

The Memorandum of Understanding that was signed by the Minister for Health, Mrs. Mitcy Larue and Mrs. Malika Mohandras the Chairperson of MIOT Hospitals, today, in Chennai.

Minister Larue explained that the MOU will provide attachments for a period of approximately one month to health professionals from medicine, nursing and other fields as will be determined jointly by Seychelles and MIOT. The Principal Secretary for Health, Mrs. Peggy Vidot, described the MOU as 'exciting times for the new direction' of the Ministry of Health. She said that MIOT will provide a medical consultant in internal medicine for a period of six months, and other consultants for short term periods to assist Seychelles in strengthening its health services. MIOT will also assist Seychelles in strengthening its clinical laboratory, starting with a comprehensive needs assessment and provide technical assistance in the form of a hospital planner and designer to develop the Seychelles hospital.

Vice-President Faure toured the MIOT Hospitals and met with all 16 Seychellois patients who are receiving specialised treatment there, and on behalf of the Seychelles Government, he expressed his gratitude to MIOT management and medical staff for the quality of care given to all Seychellois patients since Seychelles started sending patients to MIOT  in 2005.

MIOT Hospitals is a leading multi-specialty hospital which has received international patients from over 129 countries

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Justice Burhan sworn in as Puisne Judge

Justice Burhan sworn in as Puisne Judge

Wed, 12 February 2014

Mr Mohan Niranjit Burhan was sworn in again as a Judge of the Supreme Court this morning.  He took his official oaths before the President of the Republic, and in the presence of Chief Justice Fredrick Egonda-Ntende, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Francis MacGregor, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon Dr Patrick Herminie, the Attorney General, Mr. Ronny Govinden, Members of the Constitutional Appointments Authority, judges and other senior officials in the Judiciary and in the Office of the President.

In her introductory remarks at the ceremony, the Director for Cabinet Affairs in the Office of the President, Mrs. Florry Dubois noted that Mr Burhan had first worked in Seychelles as a Magistrate between 1996 and 2000.  In 2008, he returned to Seychelles and was appointed as an expatriate Judge of the Supreme Court of Seychelles for a five-year period.

He had served with devotion, and made a significant contribution to the development of the Judiciary; he had been made the Head of the Criminal Division of the Supreme Court.  He was strongly recommended by the Judiciary for a second expatriate contract, in exceptional circumstances, as provided for under Constitution of Seychelles.  However, during the course of the year, Judge Burhan had applied for, and successfully obtained, citizenship of Seychelles.  He was later recommended by the Constitutional Appointments Authority for appointment as a Judge of the Supreme Court, this time as a citizen of Seychelles.

Interviewed after his swearing-in ceremony, Justice Burhan told reporters, "I have been serving Seychelles for so long, and I intend giving my service much more because of my experience, and lot of years of service to give to the Seychelles,".

Judge Burhan graduated from the Sri Lanka Law College and later obtained a Master's Degree in Law from the University of Wales in the UK.  He has previously served as an Attorney at Law in various Districts of Sri Lanka as well as Magistrate, District Judge and High Court Judge in Sri Lanka.

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eader of Opposition in National Assembly supports plans for Anti-Trafficking Bill

eader of Opposition in National Assembly supports plans for Anti-Trafficking Bill

Wed, 12 February 2014

President James Michel met with the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Mr. David Pierre, this morning at State House.

The President and Mr. Pierre discussed a variety of topics, including the recommendations of the recent report by United Nations Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, especially women and children, Dr Joy Ngozi Ezeilo. Mr. Pierre said that there is a need for a strong anti-trafficking law to be introduced, which is currently under review by the Government. Through the assistance of the UNODC, the Government has developed a draft anti-trafficking bill and a national action plan on trafficking persons.

Mr. Pierre also spoke of his proposal for more support to be given to the Financial Intelligence Unit to combat money-laundering and corruption, as well as the need to press forward with further healthcare reforms.

They also discussed the work of the  Government to complete drainage and sewage master plans for La Digue island, following the flooding of plateau areas of the island this year and last year.

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New Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates accredited

New Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates accredited

Tue, 11 February 2014

The new ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Seychelles, Mr. Abdulla Ibrahim Al-Suwaidi, presented his credentials to President James Michel at State House this morning.

After the accreditation ceremony Ambassador Al-Suwaidi told the national media that his talks with the President were very fruitful and that more areas of cooperation will be established during meetings with government officials throughout his tenure in office.

“We have talked about strategic partnership between Seychelles and the United Arab Emirates. We have discussed different areas of cooperation such as trade, economy and many other things, because Seychelles and the United Arab Emirates have very good relations and we want to have more cooperation with the Government, so to help in its developments as Seychelles is the best of friends with the United Arab Emirates,” he said.

Also present during the meeting were the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jean-Paul Adam and the President's Diplomatic Adviser, Ambassador Callixte D'Offay.

Ambassador Al-Suwaidi is based in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.

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Accreditation of new German Ambassador

Accreditation of new German Ambassador

Tue, 11 February 2014

The new ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Seychelles, Mr. Andreas Peschke, presented his credentials to President James Michel at State House this morning.

Following the ceremony Ambassador Peschke told the national media that his talks with the President were productive. He said they discussed on-going areas of cooperation between the two countries, such as tourism, sustainable and eco-friendly development as well as the fight against piracy. 

“Seychelles and Germany are close partners in the fight against piracy and we want to continue to fight piracy until we eradicate it. There’s the German Energy Agency, which is called DENA which has developed a solar concept for the Seychelles in some pilot solar insulations and which have been installed. We would like to see more cooperation in this field and we are ready for other cooperation as well,” he said.

Also present during the meeting were the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jean-Paul Adam and the President's Diplomatic Adviser, Ambassador Callixte D'Offay.

Ambassador Andreas Peschke is based in Nairobi.

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Special Rapporteur concludes visit to Seychelles

The Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, especially women and children, Ms Joy Ngozi Ezeilo, concluded her mission to Seychelles on the 31^st of January with a Press Statement to the media. During her mission, the Rapporteur met with the President, relevant Ministers, Members of the National Assembly, the National Committee on Trafficking in Persons, non-governmental and civil society organizations, as well as other relevant stakeholders. She also had the opportunity to do site visits to the Central Police Station, Indian Ocean Tuna Ltd and the President’s Village.

The Rapporteur commended the political will of the country to combat trafficking in persons, and Seychelles’ positive actions so far through signing and ratifying relevant international instruments such as the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially women and children, as well as establishing a National Committee on Trafficking in Persons.

The Rapporteur has noted challenges that the Seychelles Government must address in order to successfully combat trafficking in persons, including putting place an effective legislative and policy framework; carrying out a baseline formative research to understand the manifestation, causes and consequences of trafficking in Seychelles; setting up effective protection mechanisms for victims, such as having a shelter; having systemic training activities for front line officers in identification and investigation of victims as well as perpetrators of trafficking in persons; as well as raising awareness for the general public on the issue.

The Government of Seychelles welcomes and appreciates the critical and conducive discussions on this matter, and remains keen on addressing shortcomings. Through the assistance of the UNODC, the Government has developed a draft anti-trafficking bill and a national action plan on trafficking persons, which are both being prepared to be presented to the Cabinet of Ministers. Training workshops, through cooperation with the International Organization on Migration, for front line officers, NGOs/CSOs and journalists have also been planned for first quarter of 2014. A media campaign, also in collaboration with the IOM, is expected to be launched in June 2014.

The Rapporteur will present her detailed findings to the UN  Human Rights Council at its 26^thSession in June 2014.

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Seychelles-China Day officially launched

Seychelles-China Day officially launched

01-February-2014

The first ever Seychelles-China Day was officially launched at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay resort yesterday evening by the Minister for Finance, Trade and Investment Pierre Laporte.

The event coincided with the Chinese New Year, which Minister Laporte described as a time of great significance for uniting with families and meeting with friends.

In his opening remarks Minister Laporte began by wishing Chinese ambassador Shi Zhonjhung, members of the Chinese embassy and of the Chinese community in Seychelles a happy new year in the Year of the Horse 2014 on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and of the government of Seychelles .

“Seychelles and China have enjoyed a long and lasting friendship over many years, in fact since Seychelles established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China on June 30, 1976, a day after the Independence of Seychelles from British colonial rule. Seychelles is a country that will keep its friends and will share continuous cordial relations for as long as we are helping to promote social, economic, political and cultural ties between our two nations,” Minister Laporte said.

He said that in order to further foster the spirit of understanding, cooperation and exchange on all diplomatic fronts, let us centre this new year working together for the benefit of both our countries and peoples.

“The Ministry of Tourism and Culture has over the years organised festivals and celebrations to recognise and reconnect us to our ethnic and cultural origins so as to discover who we are as a people and where we come from. Our roots can be traced back to the French, British, Africans, Indians as well as the Chinese, all of which we have celebrated in various festivals,” the minister said, making reference to the Semaine de la Francophonie, FetAfrik, Commonwealth Day, Seychelles-India Day and now the Seychelles-China Day which was launched yesterday and which will complete our circle of friendship with the five nations that make up our cultural and ethnic origins.

“The Seychelles-China cultural exchange agreement has ensured the steady flow of interactions between our two countries which has brought Chinese culture to the Seychelles through performances by artistic groups and acrobatic troupes,” he said. 

Minister Laporte also noted the various fields in which China has helped Seychelles, be it in scholarships or cultural exchanges, as well as the cooperation between the two countries which has helped in the development of our country.

On his part Ambassador Shi wished everyone a Happy Chinese New Year as it was the first day of the Chinese Lunar New year. 

He made reference to the first Chinese settlers to the Seychelles and their contribution to the cultural development of the country.

“The Chinese community brought not only Chinese culture but also contributed greatly to the building of Seychelles,” said the ambassador. 

“The Seychelles-China Day is in part to commemorate their contribution and they deserve our deepest respects and appreciation,” he said.

He said the Seychelles-China Day shows once again the good friendship which will keep moving forward with the joint efforts by the people and government of the two countries and by all members of the Chinese community here. 

During his speech the Chinese ambassador read part of a letter sent by President James Michel to China and the Chinese community on this occasion.

Seychelles ambassador to China, Philip Legal, sent a special video message for the occasion in which he mentioned a book he has written and which will be published in Beijing soon. A copy of the book was given to the principal secretary for culture Benjamine Rose by Ambassador Shi.

Charlie Ng Ping Cheun, chairman of the Seychelles Chinese Association, named some famous actors that were born in the year of the horse, explained in more details the programme of the celebrations and also wished everyone a happy new year.

Activities for the Seychelles-China Day continue today with the laying of the foundation stone for a new Pagoda on Benezet Street. This will be followed at 11am by a fair and photo exhibition at the Pagoda.

Tomorrow there will be Lion Dance, food fair and musical show at the ICCS car park starting at 12 noon (for the general public), an artistic show by the Liaoning Provincial Art Group at the ICCS hall at 3pm (by invitation), culminating with a lottery draw.

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Bride Show in Dublin Seychelles’ honeymoon appeal charms future brides

Bride Show in Dublin Seychelles’ honeymoon appeal charms future brides

01-February-2014

Seychelles went all out to charm the future brides of Ireland when it took part in the Bride of the Year Show in Dublin last weekend.

The show is known to be one of the largest and most important wedding shows held in the entire region of Ireland.

Tour operator Classic Resorts extended an invitation to the Seychelles Tourist Office for a second consecutive year to attend this prestigious event by sharing its stand. Together, they marketed the destination and encouraged more couples to tie the knot or honeymoon on the islands.

Already a major player on the market, this was the perfect opportunity for Classic Resorts to promote the destination through this niche segment.

Maria Morel from the Seychelles Tourist Office in London attended the show and said there is huge potential in the Irish market.

“It’s been a pleasure once again to partner with Classic Resorts at this event. This year’s visitor numbers exceeded expectations with a large number of consumers stopping by the stand specifically requesting for a wedding or honeymoon in Seychelles,” she said.

“With much emphasis on Ireland last year and also this year, visitor numbers from this market are up by 33% and looks to increase even further for 2014. The wedding and honeymoon market is huge there and with the Seychelles already known as a leading romantic destination of choice, it is hoped that many of these couples will get married or honeymoon in the destination.”

The show, considered the most glamorous Wedding Event of the Year, attracted 250 exhibitors, catering for all aspects of planning a wedding and honeymoon destinations. There were also catwalk shows with bridal gowns and accessories, showcasing over 100 bridal gowns from a selection of leading Irish and international designers and boutiques.

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