Christmas Message from President James A Michel

Christmas Message from President James A Michel

Wed, 23 December 2015

The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus, an act of love, peace, and reconciliation.

Christmas 2015 is very special for all of us Seychellois, after a most eventful December. After an intensive election campaign and two rounds of polling,  we have been looking forward to the sense of togetherness, the sense of belonging, Christmas brings every year.  We are happy Christmas is here at last.

We are thankful to God for the spirit of Christmas. It makes us feel stable, comfortable, secure and at peace with ourselves.  It is a time for collective reflection, a time to strengthen our solidarity.

This Christmas marks the beginning of a new Seychellois society, a renewal of life in our communities. We have taken stock of where we are, and what remains to be done. There is always work to do --- the progress of humankind, an emergent, unfolding and never-ending process.

The true significance of Christmas lies in spiritual and moral enlightenment. Jesus was born in difficult conditions and He spread the good news for a transformation in the lives of people.  We always look forward to a new way of life, one of love, healing and great strength. In Christmas we also see the values of family, friendship, kindness and generosity. As we celebrate, we remember that many in Seychelles and other parts of the planet are not able to share the joy that many of us take for granted.

We think of our fellow citizens who are the victims of social ills. They have a special place in the change we seek in our society. We pray for the children in the special homes, the disabled, the sick in the hospitals, the elderly people.

Our thoughts are also with those who have unfortunately lost loved ones and friends during the year. Let us remain prudent in whatever we are doing during this festive season.

My family and I thank all organizations, businesses and individuals that shared love and compassion with the vulnerable among us.  We do it in the true spirit of Christmas.

Special thanks to those who work in the essential services, who safeguard our peace and security, and care for us.

I take this occasion to express my appreciation to everybody in our country for the work done during this year to make our nation happier and more prosperous. We deserve the celebration of Christmas. Let us all do so in peace and in a spirit of sharing and reconciliation.

I wish you all a blessed Christmas!

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President Michel's address to the First Cabinet Meeting after re-election and swearing-in of Ministers, Tuesday 22 December 2015

President Michel's address to the First Cabinet Meeting after re-election and swearing-in of Ministers, Tuesday 22 December 2015

Tue, 22 December 2015

I would like to begin the meeting by expressing my thanks to the people of Seychelles who have placed their trust and confidence in me, and I wish to reiterate the statements I made in my inaugural address on Sunday that I shall ensure that this Government delivers on its promises to its people as contained in our manifesto.

I have heard loud and clear the message of our people, through the recent elections, that they are not satisfied with the level of service delivery from Government and public institutions.  This problem has to be addressed immediately.  I want every Minister to undertake an audit of the processes within his or her Ministry or Department and the agencies falling within their portfolios, and identify the obstacles preventing proper service delivery.  I want Ministers to report to me on the measures being taken to overcome these obstacles.

Ministers should take personal responsibility for monitoring the progress of work in all the institutions within their portfolio.  We know that there are many devoted public servants in our organisations.  Let us ensure that they receive the support, training and resources to discharge their responsibilities.  It is through their efforts that our ultimate goals are achieved, through synergies with civil service and the private sector.

Let us establish systems of working that ensure that all and every single worker contribute in an efficient and effective way to achieve the objectives of our organisations.  Let us monitor these processes, and recognise the contributions of those who excel in service delivery.

At the same time, individuals who fail to perform in their responsibilities should be counselled, and where necessary disciplined, so as to avoid delays and disappointments in our service to the public.  I shall not tolerate mediocrity, laziness, or wastage in Government. I shall also not tolerate the politicisation of the public service.

I made a pledge to our people on certain areas of focus in my first 100 days in office.  These included:

·     Increases in retirement pensions from this December;

·      Interest-free loans for repair of houses of elderly citizens;

·     Making home improvement and housing loans more widely accessible;

·      Raising the ceiling on housing loans;

·      A 13th month salary to be paid from January 2016;

·      A new gratuity scheme for public servants from January 2016;

·     A First Job Scheme for those leaving school from January 2016

·      Compensation and gratuity for former members of the Defence Forces;

·      An ex-gratia payment to servicemen who served in the RFA;

·      Extension of the graduate housing scheme to 5 years and increase in their allowance

·     Extension of the laptop scheme to cover S4 students from 2016;

·      Allowances to all students in post-secondary educational institutions;

·      Free access to medical services for patients recommended by private doctors;

·      Assistance with PV installations for residential properties.

In addition, Government will give top priority to address the problem of illegal drugs, placing emphasis on assistance to victims of drug abuse while dealing firmly with traffickers.

There are certain areas, such as Education and Health where the concerns of the public are especially acute.  The Ministers concerned should take steps to urgently address their problems.

I would like, once again, to remind Ministers of the need to communicate with the public, and sensitise the public to the programmes of work being undertaken on their behalf.  There is a lot of good work being done that people are not told about.  There are also problems for which a proper explanation is not given, leaving room for others to create doubt, suspicion and rumours. Our Ministries have public relations officers, let us make sure they are properly utilised.

In concluding, I want all Ministers to take personal responsibility for service delivery in their respective organisations.  Monitor your organisations well.  Deal with problems that arise.  Stop sending the public from one door to the other.  Don't wait for people to come and see the President or the Vice-President before their problems can be solved.

For my part I pledge to give you all my support, but I shall expect you all to work very hard.  We have 97 days left in which to deliver on our first pledges.  Let us make sure we do not fail in these tasks.  Let make sure that our longer 5-year programme is also implemented in an efficient and timely manner.

Remember that our mandate comes from the people of Seychelles, and they alone will be the judge of our actions.

Bon courage, and let us get down to work!

Thank you.

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Festive spirit at President’s Village following renovations and refurbishment

Festive spirit at President’s Village following renovations and refurbishment

Wed, 23 December 2015

President James Michel attended a special handing over ceremony of the newly renovated and refurbished Children’s Homes at the President’s Village this morning. The  ceremony was attended Vice-President Danny Faure, Designated Minsiter and Minsiter for Community Development, Social Affairs and Sport, Minister Vincent Meriton, Ministers, the Director of the Children’s Homes Foundation, Mr. Jules Hoareau, Representative of Her Highness Fatima Bint Mubarak, Mr. Salem Al Neyadi, the project manager, Mr. Scott Moseley, dignitaries as well as the children of the President’s Village.

Her Highness Fatima Bint Mubarak had sponosored the 8 millon dollar renovation and refurbishment projects of the childrens homes including The President’s Village, Foyer de La Solitude,  Foyer de Nazareth and Foyer de La Providence.  The President’s Village and Foyer de la Solitude have been completed and Foyer de Nazareth and Foyer de La Providence are expected to be complete by January 2016. There are also plans for the building of a retirement home for the elderly at the Foyer de la Providence, to be completed by the end of  June 2016.

Minister Vincent Meriton thanked Her Highness Fatima Bint Mubarak for the generosity of her donation and for her care towards the children of Seychelles.

“The love and care of the protection of our children is one of life’s great responsibilities, for children’s are life’s greatest gifts. They enrich our lives and make this world a happier place. Today on behalf of the Government, I would like to extend our deepest appreciation and gratitude to Her Highness Fatima Bint Mubarak for working with us, for our core belief that children should be at the centre of development. It is a special project, it is special because it is touching the lives of children in our four homes...every Seychellois child deserves to grow up in a safe and caring environment thanks to this generous gesture, the children in the homes will enjoy a better quality of life still,” said Minister Meriton in his address..

The children of the home expressed their thanks and sang Christmas carols for the President and the guests and presented the President with a gift, as well as presenting a gift for Her Highness Fatima Bint Mubarak to her representative.

President Michel and Mr. Al Neyadi unveiled the plaque for the renovated buildings of the President’s Village and then proceeded on a tour of the buildings. The President’s Village renovation project includes 20 bedrooms, 1 main kitchen and 2 pantry kitchens. 2 TV lounge rooms, 1 main dining room and 2 smaller dining areas. 4 administration offices, a meeting room, stores, music room, laundry area and playroom. All the areas have been fully furnished.

Editor’s note

• Her Highness Fatima Bint Mubarak is the President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Head of Family Development Foundation, Chairman of the Business Women Council and Honorary President of the Red Crescent of the United Arab Emirates. She is the wife of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates.

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President James Michel has been re-elected for third term

President James Michel has been re-elected for third term

Sat, 19 December 2015

2015 Presidential Election Results

James Michel- Parti Lepep 50.15% [31,512 votes]

Wavel Ramkalawan- Seychelles National Party 49.85% [31,319 votes]

Here is an extract of President Michel’s address to the Nation, broadcast live on SBC television immediately following the result this morning:

“Today the people have spoken. Today the people made their choice. The people have said that they wish that I continue on the path that I have commenced...for me to continue to lead Seychelles forward in stability, peace, and prosperity... I would like to thank all my supporters from Parti Lepep from the bottom of my heart for their support. At this point in time, it is necessary, more than ever, that we continue to create more unity in our country. Today more than ever we need to work together as Seychellois, we need to ensure we bring our people together, because after all we are Seychellois... The President that has been elected is the President of all Seychellois and we all need to work together for our Seychelles. ”

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Seychelles will be heading to a second round of voting from Wednesday December 16 to Friday December 18, 2015

Seychelles will be heading to a second round of voting from Wednesday December 16 to Friday December 18, 2015 as no candidate has won an outright majority of 50 percent plus one votes in the presidential elections which ended on Saturday December 5.

The contest will be between the incumbent president James Michel, Leader of the ruling 'Parti Lepep' and Leader of the Seychelles National Party Wavel Ramkalawan who have secured the most votes.

After a long night's wait, the island nation’s Electoral Commission announced the results a few moments ago.

James Michel who was bidding for his third and final mandate at the helm of the Seychelles government has won 28, 911 valid votes or 47.76 percent.

His closest rival Wavel Ramkalawan has won 21,391 valid votes or 35.33 percent.

Patrick Pillay, a former high-ranking figure within the ruling ‘Parti Lepep’ also leader of 'Lalyans Seselwa' has secured 8,593 valid votes or 14.19 percent.

David Pierre Leader of the Popular Democratic Movement has won 400 valid votes or 0.66 percent.

Alexcia Amesbury, Leader of the Seychelles Party for Social Justice and Democracy, also the first female candidate in a Seychelles presidential election has won 803 valid votes or 1.33 percent.

The sole Independent candidate Philippe Boullé has won 408 valid votes or 0.67 percent.

Since the establishment of the Third Republic, which saw the return of multi-party system in 1993, the ruling party has won every single presidential election in the first round.

This is the first time there is a run-off presidential election.

According to the Electoral Commission, out of the 70,943 eligible voters, there were a total of 62, 004 votes cast among which 60, 538 valid votes and 1,466 rejected ballots.

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Seychelles joins global climate change march

Seychelles joins global climate change march

02-December-2015

A group of about 30 people took part in a march on Sunday to show their concern about climate change, and commitment to action.

The march, which was part of a global campaign organised by AVAAZ and 350.org, was staged locally by the non-governmental organisation Sustainability for Seychelles (S4S) in partnership with the Citizens Engagement Platform of Seychelles (Ceps) and other civil society groups. 

The Seychelles Climate March took place on the same day as hundreds of other marches taking place at thousands of sites around the planet. 

November 29 marked the day before the start of the Paris Climate Summit, where world leaders are gathered to agree to a new and binding international agreement to control climate change.  The photos and videos of all of the marches were expected to be screened as heads of state walked into the Paris conference centre on Monday November 30, as part of a global message to world leaders that civil society wants them to make an effective and binding deal in Paris. 

The various groups who took part in the Seychelles march included S4S members, SYAH, Plant Conservation Action group, and other concerned local citizens and tourists.

The groups marched along the Beau Vallon promenade past the Coral Strand Hotel and out toward the main coastal road and looped back again towards Beau Vallon beach and the car park.
  
“Our event was small, as we were competing with many concurrent political rallies, but it was important that Seychelles was included in this huge international demonstration to tell world leaders to do the right thing in Paris,” a spokesperson for the organisers said. 

“Thousands of similar (but much bigger) events were held in cities and countries all around the globe over the weekend, and S4S is proud to say that in Seychelles we also did our part. After all, the global agreement on climate change to be signed in Paris over the next few weeks will probably have a much greater impact on the future of Seychelles and other small island developing states than our local politics, as important as the upcoming election is to us locally,” added the spokesperson.

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Mesaz kondoleans pour fanmiy Joubert

Mesaz kondoleans pour fanmiy Joubert

Wed, 25 November 2015

Prezidan Michel i’n anvoy en mesaz personnel Madanm Gemma Joubert, son zanfan ek manm zot fanmiy swivan lanmor Msye David Joubert, yer.

Prezidan i’n eksprim son sagren an aprenan lanmor Msye Joubert apre en long maladi. “Menm si David ek mwan nou ti annan diferan ideolozi politik nou ti annan gran respe pour kanmarad,” Prezidan Michel ti dir,  an azoutan ki plizyer lannen apre zot ti vin zanmi.

Dan son mesaz, Prezidan Michel ti osi salye kontribisyon Msye David Joubert koman premye minis Tourizm Sesel.

Prezidan Michel ti termin son mesaz an ekspriman son senser kondoleans ensi ki kondoleans e senpati Gouvernman a Madanm Gemma Joubert, son zanfan e tou manm son fanmiy.

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Egyptian President commutes death sentences of three Seychellois nationals to life in prison

Egyptian President commutes death sentences of three Seychellois nationals to life in prison

Wed, 25 November 2015

The Office of the President has announced that, as a result of intensive diplomatic representations at the highest levels, the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Mr Abel Fattah el-Sisi, has decided to commute the death sentences of the three Seychellois nationals, currently being held in detention in Egypt for the capital crime of drug trafficking as prescribed by Egyptian law, to one of life sentence.

President James Michel has, in his direct appeals to his Egyptian counterpart on several occasions, played a strong and proactive role in ensuring the Seychellois in Egypt are spared the death sentence.

From the onset of the trial President Michel had tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Transport of the Republic of Seychelles to ensure that the Seychellois nationals are given legal assistance to defend themselves within the Egyptian judicial system, treated humanely and with dignity, facilitated contact between their family members as well as dispatching diplomats to Egypt on a regular basis to hold talks with their Egyptian counterparts and meet with the detainees.

It is important to note that the Seychelles Constitution does not permit capital punishment and that Seychelles is a strong advocate internationally for abolishing this practice.

The Government of Seychelles is now actively pursuing all means at its disposal to ensure that on the basis of an Exchange of Prisoners Agreement, the Seychellois currently incarcerated in the Arab Republic of Egypt can serve out their life sentences in Seychelles. At the behest of President Michel, the Seychelles Ambassador accredited to Egypt, Joseph Nourrice, is currently in Cairo in to discuss the next steps with the Egyptian Authorities and to communicate in person the news to the three Seychellois nationals of the commutation of their sentence.

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President Michel visits businesses at Port Glaud and Grand Anse

President Michel visits businesses at Port Glaud and Grand Anse

Thu, 19 November 2015

President James Michel visited several businesses in the Port Glaud and Grand Anse districts this morning, which forms part of his ongoing visits to various communities and businesses this year.

President Michel met with the owners of a self-catering guesthouse, a snacks catering business, a fashion boutique, a chicken farm, a fashion boutique,  an ice-making and printing business, an art gallery and a farm.

President James Michel was accompanied on the visit by the Minister for Investment, Entrepreneurship Development and Business Innovation, Mr. Michael Benstrong, the Principal Secretary for Investment, Entrepreneurship Development and Business Innovation, Mrs. Marise Berlouis, the Member of the National Assembly for Port Glaud, the Hon. Jaquelin Sultane, the District Administrator for Port Glaud, Mr. George Auguste, the Member of the National Assembly for Grand Anse, the Hon. Lenny Lebon , the District Administrator for Grand Anse, Ms. Linette Mussard and senior officials in the Office of the President.

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Strengthening of cooperation in education and sports highlighted as new ambassador of Hungary is accredited to Seychelles

Victoria, Seychelles | November 18, 2015, Wednesday @ 09:19 in National » DIPLOMACY | By: Sharon Uranie | Views: 189

László Eduárd Máthé has become the fourth Hungarian ambassador to be accredited to Seychelles. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency)

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(Seychelles News Agency) - Possibilities exist for cooperation to be developed in the field of sports between Seychelles and Hungary.

The newly accredited Hungarian Ambassador to Seychelles said this Tuesday morning, when speaking to journalists in the island nation’s capital of Victoria.

Ambassador László Eduárd Máthé was at State House to present his credentials to the Seychelles President James Michel.

“Sports diplomacy is something that connects people, regardless of their background, most people like to sit down and watch a game sometimes. Hungary has a lot of expertise in sports education, we are among the countries that constantly gained a lot of gold medals at the Olympics in various fields. We are very happy and ready to offer our traditions and our knowledge," Máthé told the media.

According to a press statement issued by State House Tuesday afternoon, discussions between the Seychellois Head of State and the Hungarian diplomat had also focussed on ways to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Capacity building in various areas as well as strengthening cooperation in the fields of medicine and education were highlighted.

"The Hungarian higher education system already hosted a number of students from the Seychelles who have successfully completed their studies and have come back and had become very valuable members of the Seychelles economy,” said Máthé.

According to the Seychelles Agency for National Resource Development (ANHRD) there are three Seychellois students currently pursuing their tertiary education in Hungary and their studies are fully-funded by the Seychelles government.

Two of them are pursuing a degree in General Medicine and one is pursuing a degree in Dentistry.

Seychelles and Hungary established diplomatic ties in November 1977.

László Eduárd Máthé who is the fourth Hungarian diplomat to be accredited to the Indian Ocean archipelago, is based in Nairobi, Kenya. 

- See more at: http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/4098#sthash.yQCmV326.dpuf

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Visa-free travel to Russia for all Seychelles passport holders as of December 14

Saint Basil's Cathedral located in the Red Square in Moscow, a popular tourist attraction pictured during summer. A visa waiver signed between Seychelles and Russia will allow Seychelles passport holders visa free entry for a maximum stay of 30 days once it comes into force in December. (Salifa Magnan, Seychelles News Agency)

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(Seychelles News Agency) - In four weeks’ time Seychellois nationals travelling to Russia will no longer need to apply for a visa, with the coming into force of a visa waiver agreement on December 14, 2015.

The agreement was signed in September this year, by the Seychelles Foreign Affairs and Transport Minister Joel Morgan and the Russian Ambassador to the Seychelles, Vladimir Belous.

In a press statement issued this morning, the Seychelles Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Transport describes the coming into effect of the agreement as “further testimony to the excellent relationship shared between Russia and Seychelles”

It is hoped that visa free travel for Seychellois nationals to Russia, for a short stay of up to 30 days, will lead to greater cultural and economic ties as well as greater people to people exchanges.

Currently, Seychelles citizens need to apply for a visa at the Russian Embassy in Seychelles; depending on the purpose of the visit, the procedures can take up to two or three days.

Seychelles and Russia have enjoyed diplomatic relations since the Indian Ocean archipelago gained its independence in 1976.

Bilateral cooperation between the two sides exists in the military field as well as in education where a number of Seychellois have studied and are still being sent to pursue further education opportunities in Russia

Tourism is another area of cooperation; although exact figures on the number of Seychellois nationals travelling to Russia is not known; Seychelles having a visa-free entry for tourists welcomes many Russian visitors to its shores each year.

According to figures available on the National Bureau of Statistics website (NBS) a total of 10, 361 Russian tourists have disembarked in the Indian Ocean archipelago of 115 island from January up to November 8, 2015.

Once it enters into force, the visa waiver will make Russia the 129th country to allow Seychellois nationals access to their territory without requiring a visa or to be granted a visa upon arrival or enter visa-free for a specific time period.

Palau, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates are some of the countries that have also signed such an agreement with the island nation in recent months.

- See more at: http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/4092#sthash.l66qhGfq.dpuf

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Fourth Hungarian Ambassador to Seychelles Accredited

Fourth Hungarian Ambassador to Seychelles Accredited

Tue, 17 November 2015

The fourth Ambassador of Hungary to Seychelles, H.E. László Eduárd Máthé, presented his credentials to President James Michel at State House today. He was accompanied by the Seychelles Honorary Consul based in Hungary, Mr. Laszlo Kiss.

President Michel congratulated him and together they spoke about how they can enhance bilateral cooperation between Seychelles and Hungary in the fields of education, as well as medicine, sports and capacity building in various areas.

Ambassador Máthé told the national media that he intends to further the cooperation between the two countries particularly in the education sector. He also noted the possibilities for exchanges in sports.

"The Hungarian higher education system already hosted a number of students from the Seychelles who have successfully completed their studies and have come back and had become very valuable members of the Seychelles economy....Sports diplomacy is something that connects people, regardless of their background, most people like to sit down and watch a game sometimes. Hungary has a lot of expertise in sports education, we are among the countries that constantly gained a lot of gold medals at the Olympics in various fields. We are very happy and ready to offer our traditions and our knowledge," said Ambassador Máthé.

Ambassador László Eduárd Máthé is based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Also present during the meeting were the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Transport, Mr. Joel Morgan and the President's Diplomatic Adviser, Ambassador Callixte D'Offay.

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Selebrasyon tradisyonel pour bann dimoun trwazyenm az

Selebrasyon tradisyonel pour bann dimoun trwazyenm az

Mon, 16 November 2015

Prezidan James Michel in apre midi akeir Prezidan France Albert René kot en resepsyon tradisyonel an loner dimoun trwazyem az e osi a lokazyon 80yenm laniverser Ansyen Prezidan, dan zarden State House. Osi prezan ti en gran nonm dimoun trwazyenm az sorti tou bann distrik Sesel e osi kot kouvan Sainte Elizabeth.

Sa resepsyon ti osi ganny asiste par Viz Presidan Danny Faure, fanmiy Myse René e lezot envite distinge.

Prezidan Michel in dekrir sa levennman anyel koman en selebrasyon rekonesans pour bann dimoun aze pour travay ki zot in fer dan devlopman pei e pou osi selebre ansanm laniverser Ansyen Prezidan Rene.

"Lepep Seselwa atraver mwan menm i remersye ou pour ta sa ki oun fer, pour tou sa travay ki oun fer pou anmenn nou pei kot i ete ozordi e pour ou travay pour lepanouisman lepep Seselwa. Nou dir ou mersi. Ozordi letan ou pe selebre ou 80yenm laniverser, nou osi nou selebre sa lokazyon avek ou. Lepep Seselwa i selebre sa lokazyon avek ou e i remersye ou pour donn ou lavi politik pour fer dibyen pour Sesel e Seselwa, nou dir ou mersi," Prezidan Michel ti dir dan son ladres.

Prezidan ti remersye tou bann dimoun trwazyem az pour soutyen ki zot in donn li pour li kapab desarz son responsabilite.

"Mon oule remersye osi tou nou bann dimoun aze, akoz se atraver zot ansanm ek Prezidan Rene k'in travay pour devlopman nou pei; travay pour asire ki nou lazenes e ki zenerasyon fitir i kontinnyen ganny en meyer lavi, i kontinnyen ganny bann loportinite e kontinnyen viv dan en pei kot i annan stabilite, lanmour, lape e larmoni."

Prezidan Michel in profit sa lokazyon pou demann bann dimoun aze pou pas sa lasazes e leksperyans avek bann dimoun ki pli zenn pour ki zot kapab konpran bann bon valer koman lape, larmoni, stabilite e lafwa.

Lo son kote, Ansyen Prezidan René in remersye tou bann k'in travay ansanm avek li pou ede ki lazenes i grandir e ganny tou loportinite posib a zot dispozisyon. En keksoz enportan ki i ti dir I atas bokou avek lavenir.  I ti osi remersye gouvernman pour tou sa ki zot in fer e ki i ankor pe fer.

Pandan sa resepsyon de dwayen; Madanm Nancy Marie e Msye Mark Hoareau ti ganny rekonnet koman bann dwayen Sesel lefet ki zot bann dimoun pli aze dan pei.

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VISA Free Travel to Russian federation for Seychelles citizens comes into force on December 14

VISA Free Travel to Russian federation for Seychelles citizens comes into force on December 14

16.11.2015

Following the signing of the document made at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Transport between the Republic of Seychelles and the Russian Federation we would like to announce that VISA free travel to the Russian Federation for Seychellois citizens will come into force as of the 14th of December 2015.

This is further testimony to the excellent relationship shared between Russia and Seychelles which will not only spur greater cultural and economic ties but will allow for greater people to people exchanges.

This Visa waiver program also highlights the spirit of reciprocity and mutual respect between the two countries.

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Le Président Michel condamne et exprime son indignation à la suite des attaques terroristes en France

Le Président Michel condamne et exprime son indignation à la suite des attaques terroristes en France

Sat, 14 November 2015

Le Président James Michel a adressé ce samedi un message de condoléances et de solidarité au Président français, François Hollande, suite à la série d'attentats terroristes qui ont frappé des établissements à Paris. Des attaques sans précédent en France qui ont fait plusieurs dizaines de morts et de nombreux blessés dont certains dans des conditions très graves.

Le Président Michel affirme avoir appris la nouvelle avec «une profonde émotion et une grande indignation.»

« En cette douloureuse circonstance je voudrais, au nom du peuple seychellois, de son gouvernement ainsi qu'en mon nom personnel, exprimer au peuple ami de France et à votre Excellence, notre profonde compassion, nos sincères condoléances et notre totale solidarité », écrit-il.

Dans ce message le Président Michel exprime aussi la ferme condamnation des Seychelles de ces actes barbares, et s'associe à la douleur du peuple ami de France.

« C'est le lieu de vous dire que les Seychelles condamnent avec la dernière énergie ces actes criminels et abjects  qui, au delà de la France, visent les valeurs universelles d'humanisme et de tolérance auxquelles tous les peuples épris de paix adhèrent, et resteront toujours debout auprès du peuple français dans la douleur comme dans la joie », peut-on aussi lire dans le message dans lequel le Président Michel adresse ses prières aux victimes.

Le Président seychellois saisit cette occasion pour exprimer sa disponibilité à œuvrer avec le Président Hollande « en vue de lutter efficacement contre le terrorisme ainsi que toutes les formes de violence qui menacent la paix et la sécurité dans le monde. »

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President Michel congratulates Jules Hoareau on appiontment as chairperson of SADC-CNGO

President Michel congratulates Jules Hoareau on appiontment as chairperson of SADC-CNGO

Thu, 12 November 2015

President James Michel has expressed his heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Jules Hoareau, the chairman of the Citizens' Engagement Platform Seychelles (CEPS) for his appointment as chairperson of the Council of Non-Governmental Organisations of the Southern African Development Community (SADC-CNGO), as Seychelles takes over Presidency of SADC-CNGO.

“Your appointment as chair of SADC-CNGO is a well-deserved recognition of your professional integrity and your commitment to public service. We are immensely proud of your achievement, a singular honour that we all share whole-heartedly,” said the President in a letter to Mr. Hoareau.

The President wished Mr. Hoareau much success in the tasks that lie ahead, and also expressed his full support and that of the Government of Seychelles.

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President Michel expresses deepest sympathies following the demise of "remarkable statesman," former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt

President Michel expresses deepest sympathies following the demise of "remarkable statesman," former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt

Wed, 11 November 2015

President James Michel has expressed his profound sadness and deepest sympathies to the family and friends as well as to the people and government of the Federal Republic of Germany following the demise of the former Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany Mr Helmut Schmidt.

In a message addressed to the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Joachim Gauk, President Michel remarked “In Mr. Schmidt the world has lost a remarkable statesman and a key architect of the european project, who possessed great political courage and who worked tirelessly to ensure lasting peace on the european continent through cooperation and deeper integration of its member states.”

President Michel further added that the memory of his brilliant political leadership, accomplishments and humility will remain a lasting legacy to his family, friends, the Government and people of Germany as well as to the world.

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President Michel meets with high level delegates of African Prosperity Conference

President Michel meets with high level delegates of African Prosperity Conference

Tue, 10 November 2015

President James Michel met with three high level delegates of the African Prosperity Conference, at State House this afternoon. The conference is being held at Eden Bleu Hotel on Eden Island and was organised by the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI) in partnership with the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). Present at the meetings were the Chairman of the SCCI, Mr. Marco Francis and the President’s Diplomatic Adviser, Ambassador Callixte D’Offay.

CEO and President of PTA Bank

The President met with the CEO and President of PTA Bank, Mr. Admasu Tadesse. PTA Bank is the Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank which has been active in Seychelles for almost a decade, through the financing of large projects such as Eden Island.

They discussed the collaboration of African businesses for the benefits of its peoples.  Mr. Tadesse also briefed the President about the positive developments in the bank’s partnerships with the Seychelles Pension Fund and the Development Bank of Seychelles, including the credit facilities that it has made available for Seychellois businesses through DBS. They agreed that it is important for Africa to find a way to use its wealth and to generate it in a sustainable way.

Chairman of BADEA and MD of Saudi Fund

The President Met with the Chairman of BADEA’s Board of Directors and Managing Director of the Saudi Fund, Eng. Yousef Ibrahim Al Bassam. The President thanked BADEA and the Saudi Fund for their continued support of various development projects in Seychelles, such as housing infrastructure for Ile Perseverance, the Maritime Training Centre, and the Seychelles Tourism Academy.

Mr. Al Bassam commended Seychelles on its planning strategy and for being a committed partner in development.

They discussed future projects in the energy sector, infrastructure for the development of SMES and micro-finance projects.

Director of Trade and Industry of the AUC

The President met with the Director of Trade and Industry of the African Union Commission, Mrs. Treasure Maphanga. They discussed the work of the African Union Commission to encourage the private sector to push for greater African economic integration, and the setting up of an African Business Council.

Mrs. Maphanga commended Seychelles for its leadership in promoting the Blue Economy agenda of the African Union. They agreed that the diversification of African economies lies in the sustainable use of all the continent’s ocean resources. This is an important component of Agenda 2063, alongside tourism, maritime and air connectivity and renewable energy.

Editor’s Note;

For photos of the meetings see here: https://www.facebook.com/StateHouseSey/posts/927420957325856

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President Michel meets with Polish Special Envoy

President Michel meets with Polish Special Envoy

Tue, 10 November 2015

President James Michel met with the Ambassador Anna Grupinska at State House this morning. Ambassador Grupinska is the presidential special envoy for the campaign for the non-permanent membership of Poland to the UN Security Council for the period of 2018-2019.

They spoke about Poland’s bid, the need to reform the UN Security Council, the cause of Small Island Developing States, the threat of climate change, and the possibilities for increased tourism, trade and commerce between Seychelles and Poland.

Ambassador Grupinska was previously the non-resident Ambassador of Poland to Seychelles between February 2011 and May 2012.

Also present during the meeting were the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Transport, Joel Morgan, the President's Diplomatic Adviser, Ambassador Callixte d'Offay and the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Maurice Loustau-Lalanne.

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President Michel meets with new Head of IMF Mission to Seychelles

President Michel meets with new Head of IMF Mission to Seychelles

Tue, 27 October 2015

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission's new head to Seychelles, Mr. Wendell Samuel, paid a courtesy call on President James Michel at State House today. He was accompanied by Senior Economist for the African Department, Mr. Joseph Thornton and the Advisor to the Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund for the Asia-Pacific constituency, Mr. Ronald Cafrine.

Mr. Wendell and his delegation are currently in Seychelles to conduct the third review under the Extended Fund Facility, which was approved on 4th June 2014.

President Michel welcomed Mr. Samuel and noted there exists a fruitful partnership between Seychelles and IMF since it started the macroeconomic reform programme in 2008. He further expressed Seychelles’ wish to continue on the programme for future success.

“We thank IMF for its continued support to our economic programme following the launch of our economic reforms. This is indeed a far-reaching programme which I believe has had an excellent start. IMF’s assistance is greatly appreciated. We greatly value your support in the pursuit of further progress for our reforms,” said President Michel.

During the meeting, the President and Mr. Samuel discussed lengthily on how the programme has borne fruit and continues to bear fruit. They spoke about the way Seychelles has been able to successfully restructure most of its external debt obligations, returning Seychelles to a path of towards sustainable debt levels. They further noted that much progress has been achieved in terms of structural reforms, whereby the country has met most of its quantitative programme targets. These included a surplus and increase in foreign exchange reserves, which has boosted the resilience of the economy.

“We will continue with structural reforms that make way for the creation of wealth through SME's and by providing more space for the private sector to operate and thrive. In this regard, we lay a lot of emphasis on capacity building and empowerment of our youth, entrepreneurs and businessmen,” added President Michel.

Regarding public enterprises, the President said it is the policy of the government to ensure that they become competitive and generate their own profits and be financially viable without any governmental financial assistance.

“Many challenges still lie ahead and with IMF’s help we will be able together to meet these challenges in the interest of building a much stronger economy for the people of Seychelles. What is really important is to ensure that the gains and benefits of the economic programme reach the people,” concluded Mr. Michel.

Also present at the meeting, was the Minister for Finance, Trade and the Blue Economy, Mr. Jean-Paul Adam, the Governor of the Central Bank of Seychelles, Ms. Caroline Abel and the President’s Diplomatic Adviser, Ambassador Callixte D’Offay.

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Indian Ocean countries support Miss Creole des Iles International competition

Indian Ocean countries support Miss Creole des Iles International competition

Creole speaking countries in the Indian Ocean have pledged their support to the effective organisation and running of the Miss Creole International competition. Seychelles recently elected its Miss Kreol des Iles as part of the 30th Anniversary Celebrations of its annual Festival Kreol.

Following a meeting held at the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Offices at ESPACE Building on Monday 26^th October, the minister for Tourism and Culture, Alain St.Ange, Chief Executive of the Vanilla Islands, Pascal Viroleau and other representatives from Reunion Island and Rodgrigues met the founder of the pageant, Director of Telly’s Modelling agency, Terry Carolla.

Also present at the meeting were the Principal Secretary for Culture, Benjamine Rose, Deputy Chief Executive Officer at the Seychelles Tourism Board Nathalie Didon, Marketing executive at the Tourism Board Coralie Renambatz, Marie Dieu Stelliania Perrine from Rodrigues, and Reine Grondin from Reunion Island. Minister St.Ange informed the meeting that he has also discussed the proposal with Minister Santaram Baboo, the Minister of Arts and Culture of Mauritius and that he was fully supportive of this cultural drive for the Indian Ocean Region.

During the talks, the different representatives representing the different Indian Ocean Islands discussed the many ways through which they could use the pageant to put the Creole culture at the forefront, and have the winner help to market the region’s culture once she has clinched the crown.

“The idea will be for each island to elect their own Miss Kreol des Iles, after which one shall be elected at a beauty with a purpose pageant to elect the Miss Creole des Iles International from the respective island's Kreol Beauty Queens. To better represent this concept there needs to be the presence of the overseas department of territories of France territories, Haiti and also New Orleans. This will be a golden opportunity for them to showcase their Creole culture and the unique attributes of their respective countries,” said Minister St.Ange.

This argument was also supported by Ms Benjamine Rose, the Seychelles PS for Culture. However Mr Pascal Viroleau, the CEO of the Indian Ocean Vanilla islands moved to propose that the pageant be organised to a set standard – enabling all the countries supporting Miss Creole des Iles International to choose a beauty queen fit to be an ambassador for the Creole world.

It is for this reason that those in attendance have also agreed to set up a committee comprising of representatives from their respective islands to ensure that the event is well organised and is successful and that the first pageant to elect the First Miss Creole des Iles International be held during the 2016 Festival Kreol in Seychelles.  The pageant will then rotate to all the islands participating in this beauty pageant. It was agreed that this will be give the islands a big boost in terms of visibility on the international arena.

Those attending the meeting agreed with Minister St.Ange’s wish that Miss Creole des Iles International event is integrated on agenda as part of the calendar of events of activities in Rodrigues, Mauritius, Reunion and Seychelles.

“It will be also be an event where the flags and the identity of those participating islands will be known to the world,” said Minister St.Ange.

Mr Terry Corolla thanked all those representatives for their support of the idea and stated that the event is a good way of putting the culture of the islands at the forefront as the participating girls will have the opportunity to share the many facets of being Creole through their cuisine and dance to name a few.

It is to be noted that Seychelles staged its Miss Kreol des Iles pageant last October 10, this year and 18 year old Debbie Horsman was the winner.

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Air Seychelles offers in-flight connectivity as icts first Airbus A330 'Aldabra' moves to the Seychelles register

Victoria, Seychelles  |  October 23, 2015 @ 8:22 p.m. Friday in Business »TOURISM | By: Fabienne Fardial and Sharon Urania | Views: 765         

Aldabra, Air Seychelles third Airbus A330 aircraft and first to join the civil aircraft register Seychelles. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency)

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(Seychelles News Agency) - Air Seychelles' Airbus' Aldabra 'HAS Become the third Airbus A330 aircraft and first of the national airline to be registered on the Seychelles civil aircraft register, over the last five months.  

Named after-One of the World's Largest raised coral atoll Seychelles aussi one of UNESCO world heritage sites 'Aldabra', is the first Seychelles-registered aircraft to offer guests in-flight connectivity.

Aldabra, qui has-been registered as S7-ADB officiellement Was Welcomed this morning, As It Was greeted by the traditional water cannon salute at the International airport at Pointe Larue, on the eastern cost of the Seychelles island of Mahe hand this morning.

It is the first Airbus A330 aircraft, Previously registered in the United Arab Emirates with Etihad Airways to be Transferred to the Seychelles civil aircraft register, Following The transfer of two of Air Seychelles' Airbus A320 aircraft, Amirante in June and Silhouette in September this year .          

Aldabra  receiving send the official welcome as a Seychelles registered aircraft as it is greeted by the traditional water cannon salute. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

Air Seychelles, qui Was Established in 1977 and adopté ict present name in September 1978 up to 2012 Was Wholly Owned by the Seychelles government.

UAE's Etihad Airways Invested $ 45 million in Air Seychelles When It Bought a 40 percent share in the airline in 2012 with the aim of turning the company around after-Losses of several prior years.    

Aldabra  Was the first Airbus to join Air Seychelles international fleet in 2012 Following The strategic partnership entre les two airlines. 

Speaking to the local press at the airport this morning, Air Seychelles Chief Executive, Roy Kinnear, Described the new services of in-flight connectivity available on the aircraft did Reviews another way of Demonstrating That Air Seychelles is Focused on Improving the guest experience.     

This is expected to allow guests to-have internet connection for smartphones and tablets Their Internet through the Wi-Fi or mobile data, Enabling Them to call friends and family as well as Receive and send texts messages.

"What this means clustering in this day and age of technology, is a technology WIDER ranks of leisure activities onboard our aircraft ... and For Many Who of us travel for work it means clustering Purposes We Can shoot off emails to our colleague," Said Kinnear .

With a configuration of 18 Business Class and 236 Economy Class seats, Aldabra Operates long-haul flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle, regional flights to Johannesburg and selected flights to regional destinations of Abu Dhabi and Mauritius ..  

Ribbon cutting ceremony: (from second left) Didier Dogley, Ministry for Environment; Air Seychelles CEO Roy Kinnear, Joel Morgan, Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Transport; and Alain St Ange, Ministry for Tourism and Culture. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License:  CC-BY

One of the benefits of Having icts aircraft registered locally Is That this offers advantages shopping more to Air Seychelles Including the opening up of air access to locations, qui require a Seychelles-registered aircraft for charter and scheduled operations based there bilateral air services agreements the Indian Ocean archipelago HAS signed with --other countries.  

"This development lays a strong foundation for more growth, as Air Seychelles can now operate Aldabra, our biggest aircraft in terms of passenger and cargo capacity, to more destinations and explore the possibility of opening new routes to markets qui Were Previously not accessible" Said Kinnear.   

The airline HAS Indicated That It Is Intensifying Plans to fly to China, one destination That Is regarded an emerging market for the island nation's tourism industry; the main pillar of the economy.   

Selon the Seychelles Minister responsible for Transport, Joel Morgan, aussi Chairman of Air Seychelles, the island nation HAS already secured connectivity with four major cities in China Including Beijing and Shanghai.    

"Our plan for China are on track ... we are working very hard.to make sour That is our business model is One That robust, solid and for the development of the Chinese market ...," Said the Seychelles Minister responsible for Transport, Joel Morgan , aussi Chairman of Air Seychelles.   

"I predict que la Chinese market continues to grow Will Significantly ... we are already seeing near exponential growth of this market and I believe it is significant future market year in the balance of things with the European market for Seychelles."

Selon latest figures available on the National Bureau of Statistics website, NBS, a total of 216.774 visitors-have disembarked in the Indian Ocean archipelago of 115 islands with a population of around 93,000 from January to October 18, 2015. 

This Represents 19 percent Increase in visitor arrivals Compared To la même période in 2014.

France  remains the main market with a total of 28.946 visitors so far Closely Followed by Germany with 28.477 visitors.  

Although China is in the sixth position with 12.657 Chinese visitors coming to the Seychelles shores to date, Representing 7 percent Increase Compared to last year's figures, Morgan HAS highlight highlighted the desire to see Seychelles Attracting more doubles than the current number of Chinese visitors to the island nation.  

Selon Morgan, the challenge remains to engage with --other stakeholders in the tourism industry Including the Seychelles Tourism Board, hotels and tour operators to Provide packages geared specifically Reviews towards the Chinese market.    

New destinations are on the cards as Air Seychelles transfers more aircraft to the island nation's civil register of aircraft. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License:  CC-BY

With Amirante, Silhouette and now Aldabra Transferred to the Seychelles aircraft civil register, only one Airbus A330 aircraft painted in Air Seychelles colors is still registered in the United Arab Emirates with Etihad Airways.     

- See more at: http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/3951#sthash.7MhuBeRy.dpuf

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