President James Michel attends reception hosted by President Barack Obama for Heads of State in New York

President James Michel attends reception hosted by President Barack Obama for Heads of State in New York

29.09.2015

President James Michel as well as other Heads of State attending the General Assembly where hosted on Monday evening by the President of the United States of America, Mr. Barack Obama to a reception at the New York Palace Hotel in New York.

The reception underscored a central tenet of Mr. Obama’s address to the General Assembly on Monday, which is primarily to use diplomacy as a conduit to strengthen international cooperation in the pursuit of peace.

After the event, President James Michel remarked that it was an excellent occasion to engage in a less formal manner with the heads of the international community allowing for a more targeted manner with which to achieve resolute action on pertinent issues, most notably the eradication of hunger, climate change and global peace.

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Seychelles President James Michel attends largest opening of UN General Assembly Debate

Seychelles President James Michel attends largest opening of UN General Assembly Debate

Tue, 29 September 2015

President James Michel has attended the opening of the 70^th session of the United Nations General Assembly Debate in New York on Monday

President Michel is set to address the Assembly on Tuesday afternoon, highlighting Seychelles’ motivations and ambitions in view of the post 2015 development agenda and the future viability of the world organisation.

The 70^th anniversary of the United Nations is a momentous occasion in the organisation’s history not only as it has gathered the largest number of world leaders but also because it seeks to adopt and gain consensus amongst its member states to implement the 2030 development agenda and includes the Sustainable Development Goals.

The Secretary-General of the United Nations Mr Ban Ki-moon officially opened the proceedings reiterating the intended outcome of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to end extreme poverty by the year 2030 and give people a life of peace and dignity. Mr. Ban further stressed that the members of the United Nations must be cognizant of the promises proclaimed in its Charter and listen to the voices of all its peoples to overcome the harsh realities facing the world today.

The President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, Dilma Rousseff was the first Head of State to speak, focusing primarily on the refugee crisis stating that her nation is hosting immigrants and that there should be common resolve and determination to help resolve the situation and that the world should not impede the movement of people.

President Roussef was followed by the President of the United States of America, Mr. Barack Obama who spoke about the principles of diplomacy in the world to govern collective action for a more stable and peaceful world. Mr Obama also commented on recent international crises and called on world leaders to exercise leadership ‘strong enough to recognize that nations share common interests and people share a common humanity.’

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Transport, Mr. Joël Morgan, Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles to US and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Mrs. Marie-Louise Potter and Diplomatic Adviser to the President, Ambassador Callixte d’Offay, accompanied President James Michel to the opening of the UNGA.

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President James Michel at the forefront of debate promoting the sustainability of Oceans on Clinton Global Initiative Panel

Tue, 29 September 2015 Speaking at a panel at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) Special Session on Sustainable Oceans on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly’s General Debate on Monday, President James Michel made a strong statement emphasising the urgency for unified action against climate change and its impact on the oceans of the world. “Climate change is hurting the sea which is the lifeblood of our Blue Planet... As such, non-action on the issue condemns humanity’s collective future to a dark fate,” he said. President Michel highlighted the plight of small island states in the fight against climate change as well as the opportunities that oceans provide to fuel the potential of people placing them at the centre of development. In announcing The Blue Guardians Commitment to Action, former United States President Bill Clinton remarked that President Michel was an example of a leader helping to ensure resilient and sustainable oceans by protecting large areas of it. The other panelists at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) Special Session on Sustainable Oceans included the world famous American marine biologist, oceans explorer, author and lecturer Sylvia Earle, who is the founder and chair of The Sylvia Earle Alliance,  as well as American actor, author and producer, Ted Danson, who is also a member of the board of directors of Oceana, an NGO billed as the largest international ocean conservation and advocacy organization, and Maria Jose Gonzales, Executive Director of the Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund). “Seychelles has committed itself to be a Blue Economy pioneer.  We have committed to empowering ourselves as Blue Guardians to not only empower island states, but to offer a new avenue for sustainable development and fighting climate change. And we know that many others share our aspirations. We stand ready to act as guardians- and as channels for all those countries, and organizations who want to make a real and immediate difference in our oceans health- our planet's well-being. It begins with us all,” said President James Michel after the event. President Michel was present for the launch of the Blue Guardians initiative, together with the Prime Minister of St Vincent and Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves. Blue Guardians is a partnership established by the governments of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) through SIDS DOCK, a renewable energy initiative that connects the energy sector in SIDS with the global market for finance. The partnership includes leading private sector technology and data providers, including DigitalGlobe, a leading global provider of commercial high-resolution earth observation and advanced geospatial solutions; the Clinton Climate Initiative, an initiative of the Clinton Foundation; multi-lateral development organizations, including the World Bank; and conservation NGOs such as Conservation International, The Nature Conservancy, and GRID-Arendal. This international consortium of public and private organizations aims to develop sustainable island economies while increasing resilience to climate change by supporting coastal communities, marine and fisheries conservation, and clean renewable energy. “Climate change is the single largest challenge facing global leaders today.  And none of us can solve it alone.  Our individual actions will count for little if they don't contribute to a comprehensive global approach. When we look at our ocean- we are reminded of the threat that sea level rise poses for all of us.  But we are also inspired- because we believe that our oceans also offer us the best route to respond together against climate change. For island states- our Blue Economy offers the opportunity to both create sustainable economic growth, and build climate change resilience for ourselves and our planet,” said President Michel. SIDS contribute the least to climate change, yet are feeling the greatest impact of its consequences. Climate adaptation for many of these countries is a matter of survival. While small in landmass, SIDS govern over vast territorial oceans and coastlines when their exclusive economic zones are included. These areas are threatened by climate change, leading to increased ocean acidification, decline in fisheries, and more frequent and severe storms. Historically, development of these huge ocean spaces and their abundant, and often unknown, marine resources have largely been limited to fisheries, tourism, and fossil fuel extraction. However, if properly managed, these ocean and coastal areas also present the greatest opportunity for island nations to capture sustainable benefits of their blue economies while increasing their resilience to climate change. A lack of adequate information has meant that island nations have not optimized the potential benefits of this great resource. “ We aspire to empower ourselves as large ocean states- as 'blue guardians'. Our oceans are  under threat as never before.  But never before has the imperative of turning to oceans as true spaces of sustainable development been so pressing. Building on the Samoa Pathway, and on Sustainable Development Goal 14, we can build sustainable partnerships that focus on the strengths of islands and not their weaknesses,” the President added. With the formal establishment of SIDS DOCK as an intergovernmental organization of the United Nations, Blue Guardians will assist island nations with broadening their economic and sustainable development master plans to include ocean and coastal management, and will help SIDS implement the goals outlined by the Samoa Pathway. Blue Guardians will leverage big data solutions and harness informational tools to allow SIDS to set priorities in sustainably managing their fisheries, tourism and renewable energy sectors. The program is also raising a Blue Guardians multi-donor trust fund that will go to participating islands for technical assistance, data acquisition and natural resource management. The President was accompanied to the event by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Transport, Mr. Joel Morgan and the Ambassador for Small Island Developing States and Climate Change, Ambassador Ronny Jumeau. Editor’s Note For extra photographs with President Clinton, see https://www.facebook.com/StateHouseSey/posts/910276715706947 For extra photographs of the Blue Guardians launch, see https://www.facebook.com/StateHouseSey/posts/910277322373553 For extra photographs of the panel session, see https://www.facebook.com/StateHouseSey/posts/910278439040108

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President Michel arrives in New York for 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly

President Michel arrives in New York for 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly

Mon, 28 September 2015

President James Michel and his delegation arrived in New York last night. Today, the President will attend the opening of the 70^th session of the United Nations General Assembly, which is the largest gathering of heads of state and government ever at the United Nations.

During the course of the day, President Michel will address the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) Special Session on Sustainable Oceans, at the invitation of former US President Bill Clinton and the Clinton Foundation.

On Monday evening, President Michel will attend a reception held in honour of Heads of State, hosted by the President of the United States, Mr. Barack Obama.

On Tuesday afternoon President Michel will address the UN General Assembly.

President Michel is accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Transport, Mr. Joel Morgan, the diplomatic adviser to the President, Ambassador Callixte D’Offay, the Seychelles Ambassador to the US and Permanent Representative of Seychelles to the United Nations, Ambassador Marie-Louise Potter and the Ambassador for Small Island Developing States and Climate Change, Ambassador Ronald Jumeau.

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President Michel extends condolences to Saudi Arabia following tragic deaths of pilgrims to Mecca

President Michel extends condolences to Saudi Arabia following tragic deaths of pilgrims to Mecca

Fri, 25 September 2015

Shortly after the tragedy of a crane crashing into a crowd of pilgrims in Mecca killing and injuring many, an incident at Mina during the Hajj pilgrimage has claimed the lives of over seven hundred people in Saudia Arabia.

In the wake of this tragedy, in a message to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud,  President James Michel has extended his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Seychelles to the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to the countless families who lost their loved ones.

"The Government and the people of Seychelles pray for souls of those who perished in this most tragic accident and equally hope that the hearts of the bereaved families find solace especially in this time of holy pilgrimage. We are also hopeful for a speedy recovery for all those injured, said President Michel.

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President Michel to speak on Seychelles' Blue Economy development at Clinton Global Initiative Special Session on Sustainable Oceans

President Michel to speak on Seychelles' Blue Economy development at Clinton Global Initiative Special Session on Sustainable Oceans

Fri, 25 September 2015

President James Michel has been invited by former US President Bill Clinton and the Clinton Foundation to speak on a panel on sustainable oceans on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly’s General Debate by world leaders in New York next week.

President Michel will also address the General Assembly, which organisers have announced will be the largest gathering of heads of state and government ever at the United Nations.

The other panelists at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) Special Session on Sustainable Oceans will be the world famous American marine biologist, oceans explorer, author and lecturer Sylvia Earle, who is the founder and chair of The Sylvia Earle Alliance, and American actor, author and producer Ted Danson,who is also a member of the board of directors of Oceana, an NGO billed as the largest international ocean conservation and advocacy organisation.

President Michel has been invited to give his perspective as the leader of an island country that is spearheading the development of a Blue Economy as an innovative way for SIDS to take full ownership of their large ocean territories to develop their islands through the sustainable use of their marine resources while practicing proactive conservation policies for the oceans and seas that surround them.

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President Michel meets with the President of Round Table International

President Michel meets with the President of Round Table International

Fri, 25 September 2015

The President of Round Table International, Mr. Altaf Jeevunjee, paid a courtesy call on President James Michel this morning, together with the President of the Seychelles Round Table Association, Mr. Shantilal Dhanjee, the Chairman of Seychelles Round Table No.2, Mr. Lenny Gabriel, the Vice-Charman of Seychelles Round Table No. 2, Mr. Neil Puresh, and Honorary Tabler, Mr. Dan Fontaine.

The President commended the Seychelles Round Table and the good work it is doing in Seychelles. They spoke about the possibilities for future activities they are planning.

" The Seychelles Round Table members  are very active, very energetic....I congratulate you for all the work you are doing for the less fortunate in society. The Government will continue to support you in your noble mission," said President Michel during the meeting.

Mr Altaf Jeevunjee, who is also the President of Round Table Sri Lanka, and his delegates briefed the President on the Round Table’s origins, expansion and activities around the world.

The President of Round Table Seychelles, Mr. Shantilal Dhanjee thanked the President for the support of the Government to Round Tables Seychelles and its projects.

The Chairman of Seychelles Round Table No. 2, Mr. Lenny Gabriel, spoke to the President about the profound effect the charitable organization can have in the lives of people, when they need assistance, especially with those needing medical assistance.

Today, Round Table Seychelles is launching the first day of its annual ‘Regatta’ weekend of fundraising activities. This year one of the projects that will benefit from the proceeds of the Regatta will be a five-year vaccination programme against pneumonia with the aim to eradicate this disease in Seychelles.

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The Seychelles Tourism Minister honored for "his outstanding efforts" in promoting tourism.

Victoria Seychelles | September 25, 2015 @ 7:31 p.m. Friday in In French »NEWS NATIONAL | By: Sharon Urania, Madiah Philo and Rassin Vannier | Views: 103

The Seychelles Tourism Minister Alain St Ange (State House)

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(Seychelles News Agency) - The British Minister of International Development, Baroness Verma Sandip, honored the Minister of Tourism and Culture from Seychelles, Alain St Ange, in recognition for his work and leadership in the development of tourism.

She handed one to St Ange 'Plaque of Honour ".

According to a press release issued by the Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture, the Minister St Ange was the guest of honor at the World Summit India 2015 in London, where he inaugurated the meeting.

The Minister of Culture and Tourism Seychelles said he feels very honored to receive this "prestigious recognition" in the House of Lords in London. 

The British Minister of International Development, Baroness Sandip Verma, honored the Minister of Tourism and Culture from Seychelles, Alain St Ange, in recognition for his work and leadership in the development of tourism. (Photo License: CC-BY)

"To be recognized internationally such it is a success not just for me as a leader in tourism, but also recognition for the industry tourism of Seychelles and the country as a whole. It shows that our industry Tourism is on the right track, "said the SNA St Ange.

"To be recognized as a leader of tourism for my devotion, my passion, my courage is indeed a great achievement ... the industry Tourism Seychelles belongs to each and every Seychellois. For its continued success, we must stay together as a country ... "

The tourism is the main pillar of the Seychelles economy. Last year, a total of 232.667 visitors came to the Seychelles, a figure expected to rise this year if the current trend continues.

According to the latest statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) since the beginning of the year, there was an increase of 19 percent in the number of visitors compared to last year.

- See more at: http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/3778#sthash.DCKNuhcx.dpuf

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“We all have a stake in the Blue Economy” – The first Seychellois industrial longliner fleet

“We all have a stake in the Blue Economy” – The first Seychellois industrial longliner fleet

Fri, 25 September 2015

President James Michel visited three fishing vessels this morning, moored in the Port of Victoria, which are part of the first fully Seychellois-owned industrial longliner fleet, costing a total 35 million Seychelles rupees.

The President met with the fleet’s owner Mr. Alderic Benoiton and discussed his fisheries project, which is valued at total, including the vessels, of 95 million Seychelles rupees. The project also comprises of a fish processing factory.

“Today I am very proud as a President who promotes our Blue Economy, to see these vessels....to see that  longline fishing by Seychellois for Seychellois is entering a new level in the Blue Economy ....this forms part of our drive to ensure Seychellois are taking ownership of their economy... we all have a stake in the Blue Economy. I congratulate Mr. Benoiton for his initiative to exploit the ocean’s resources sustainably, to benefit the country, the local market and for export... and he is also going to invite young Seychellois at the maritime school to come and learn the skills for this kind of fishing career,” said President Michel following the visit.

Mr. Alderic Benotion said that he responded to the call made by President Michel and his Government for more Seychellois to enter into new ventures in the Blue Economy.

“ We seized the opportunity and started the project...I am very proud of what we have been able to achieve... in order to get revenue for our country we need to produce value-added products... our factory will process the fish and produce these value-added products,” said Mr. Benoiton.

President Michel was accompanied on the visit by the Minister for Fisheries and Agriculture, Mr. Wallace Cosgrow, the Principal Secretary for Fisheries and Agriculture, Mr. Michel Nalletamby, and Special Adviser for Fisheries to the Minister for Fisheries and Agriculture, Mr. Finley Racombo

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President Michel at the 70th General Assembly of the United Nations

President Michel at the 70th General Assembly of the United Nations

Mon, 21 September 2015

The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. James Alix Michel is travelling to New-York to participate in the 70^th Session of the United Nations General Assembly which will take place at the end of this month. This session of the General Assembly is an historic one as the United Nations is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.

President Michel will be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Transport, Mr. Joel Morgan, the Secretary General in the Office of the President, Mrs. Lise Bastienne, the diplomatic adviser to the President, Ambassador Callixte D’Offay, the Seychelles Ambassador to the US and Permanent Representative of Seychelles to the United Nations, Ambassador Marie-Louise Potter and the Ambassador for Small Island Developing States and Climate Change, Ambassador Ronald Jumeau.

President Michel will address the UN General Assembly which will launch the Post-2015 Development Agenda, with sustainable development goals at its core.

It is a vast universal development agenda, with 17 objectives and many associated targets, that aims to promote the social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainable and inclusive development. The goals and targets which will come into effect on 1^st January 2016 will stimulate action over the next 15 years in areas of critical importance for humanity and the planet in order to change the world for the better by 2030.

This 70^th Session of the UNGA will constitute one of the most important milestones in the Organisation’s history as it will be the first time that world leaders pledge common action and endeavours across such a broad and universal policy agenda.

It will be recalled that Seychelles, under the leadership of President Michel, along with other fellow Small Island Developing States, has been actively engaged in the discourse about the design and the shaping of the new agenda, as it has been with the Millennium Development Goals and with major development-related processes.

Seychelles has made a strong impact over the past years within the UN system with its work through its active and constructive contribution in major conferences and summits, the outcomes of which have laid a solid foundation for sustainable development and have helped to shape the new agenda. In the process, Seychelles has emerged as a strong proponent of reaching a fair deal for SIDS.

These conferences and summits include the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), the Lima and the New York Conferences on Climate Change, the Samoa Summit on Small Island Developing States, the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Reduction, and the Addis Ababa Conference on Financing for Development.

It is to be underlined that the priorities and concerns of Small Island States (SIDS) are well represented in the sustainable Development Goals. With this new agenda, the international system has now a sustainable vision for SIDS and that AOSIS has a place on the global agenda.

SIDS, as a group have been able to leverage their vulnerabilities to advocate for stronger development partnerships. As effective negotiating partners, they have been one of the catalysts in the crafting of the new sustainable development agenda.

Island states, as barometers for development, have demonstrated global leadership and rapid progress in addressing sustainable development challenges and inspiring other countries around the world to do the same.

As an island nation Seychelles greatly appreciates goal 14 of the SDGs which refers to the sustainable development of oceans in line with the Blue Economy agenda that the country is spearheading. It recognises that the Oceanic Space is one which provides for the sustainability of the planet.

It will be an opportunity for Seychelles to underscore the importance it attaches to the new agenda and its determination to ensure its implementation, nationally, regionally and globally.

Indeed the world leaders have committed themselves to working to fully implement the new agenda, through a revitalized and enhanced partnership, in the spirit of global solidarity, supported by the concrete policies and actions outlined in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development adopted by the General Assembly on 27 July 2015.

This revitalized partnership will bring together governments, parliamentarians, the private sector, civil society, the United Nations System and other actors and mobilizing all available resources.

Looking ahead to the International Conference on Climate Change in Paris in December, the President will re-emphasise the importance of reaching an ambitious and universal climate agreement and the need for real financing options to be made available to SIDS. In this context, it will reiterate its call on all developed countries to fulfill their commitments for the mobilization of $100 billion annually by 2020 for the operationalization of the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

The President will have the opportunity to meet with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, and to express to him his appreciation for his inspiring leadership of the United Nations and his unwavering support to the needs and aspirations of SIDS. He will also be meeting his counterparts and sharing his insights and perspectives on shared bilateral and global interests.

In the margins of the General Assembly Session, President Michel will also participate in the 2015 Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) Annual meeting, at the invitation of Mr. Bill Clinton, former President of the United States of America. CGI will bring together global leaders from all sectors of society to develop innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

The Clinton Global Initiative, having taken up the idea of SIDS being guardians of the oceans, a concept that President Michel expounded during his participation at the Samoa SIDS Summit in 2014, will at this meeting launch the Blue Guardians Initiative which is being developed into a global fund-raising development programme for SIDS.

At the end of October, President Michel will take the SIDS message on climate change and the Blue Economy to the India-Africa Summit in Delhi, India, as well as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta in November.

The challenges facing small island sates in reducing vulnerability and the ongoing Commonwealth project of “Building Resilience of Small States,” as well as the strategic vision for Small States 2050 will be discussed.

The meetings will be of key importance for garnering support for the Paris conference on climate change as well as accelerating the implementation of the outcomes of sustainable and inclusive development, with reference to the UN process on the Post-2015 Global Development Agenda and Financing for Development.

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NDEA boosts up fight against drug trafficking

NDEA boosts up fight against drug trafficking

22-September-2015

The National Drugs Enforcement Agency has announced that it is intensifying its fight against drug trafficking through what it has called a major anti-drug operation, in the most affected areas and with bad reputation on the islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.

The operation which started yesterday and which is targeting traffickers such as distributers, transporters and pushers operating at community level and directly affecting drugs’ victims, was announced by the Minister for Home Affairs Charles Bastienne during a press conference at his Independence House office yesterday morning. The operation will, however, consist of mobile interventions and will not necessitate permanent police presence in sensible areas like Les Mamelles or Corgat Estate.

Speaking in the presence of National Drugs Enforcement Agency (NDEA) chief officer Niall Scully, Mr Bastienne explained that the objective of the operation is to as much as possible paralyse the local drug distribution system and clean the streets of drugs and drug dealers. He has added that if the present operation does not necessarily target drug users, the latter will be dealt with according to the law. The minister is confident that the operation will benefit families whom he says are most of the time “suffering in silence”, as a result of their members being drugs’ victims.

“The NDEA has recently achieved remarkable results in its effort to fight drug trafficking. It is now important that the fight passes on to a next level,” he said.

But what makes the minister believe the new strategy will now work compared to other similar operations in the past?

Mr Bastienne elaborated that the ongoing one is a joint operation between the police and even the army, whereby officers from the regular police and the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces’ (SPDF) Military Police Unit have been seconded to the NDEA.

Compared to previous NDEA operations supported by the police, Mr Bastienne affirmed that all officers involved will function under NDEA authority, “in one line of command to meet one objective.”

“The NDEA and police are working in close collaboration, in tandem,” he insisted.

The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Services, Community Development and Sports have also been brought on board as drug users caught during the operation will equally be provided with medical or social support. The Home Affairs minister has furthermore acknowledged that those two partners will eventually have to deal with possible health and social consequences resulting from the addicts being deprived their daily doses.

He took the opportunity to announce that government is actually finalising a comprehensive detoxification programme for those addicts.

Minister Bastienne has wished to reassure the population that the current anti-drug drive with police support will not affect the force’s resources and other operations. On the other hand, he believes that it will help to diminish crime and consequently result in less police interventions. The police are at the same time not anticipating a large number of arrests to be made, as though Mr Bastienne considers them as generally “responsible for the misery of the Seychellois people”, those traffickers represent a small number of persons.

The minister seized the occasion to comment that the decentralised policing approach introduced since he took over the interior portfolio earlier this year is bringing success. As examples of this success he stated that instead of up to 150 reported crimes per week then, the figures have dropped to as low as 70 at certain periods. Also, all of the 160 suspects who were wanted on the arrest list and whom the police believe were responsible for the majority of crimes in the community have since been arrested.

Mr Scully has on his side ensured that the operation against dealers on the streets will run parallel to the effort to combat drug importation and supply. Happy that what he counts as 45% of operators have been to date apprehended, he says that the NDEA is continuing to observe suspect “big fish” which the agency continually identifies. In many cases, the NDEA says that they know who those traffickers and their “small dogs” are, but need evidence to bring them before the courts.

It is hoped that the present operation which will go on for three months and will be renewed if necessary, will help catch a large number of them.

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70th General Assembly of the United Nations

70th General Assembly of the United Nations

22-September-2015

President Michel to address UN assembly

President James Alix Michel is travelling to New York in the United States to take part in the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly which will take place at the end of this month.

This session of the General Assembly is an historic one as the United Nations is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.

President Michel will be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Transport, Joël Morgan, the Secretary General in the Office of the President, Lise Bastienne, the diplomatic adviser to the President, Ambassador Callixte D’Offay, the Seychelles Ambassador to the US and Permanent Representative of Seychelles to the United Nations, Ambassador Marie-Louise Potter, and the Ambassador for Small Island Developing States and Climate Change, Ambassador Ronald Jumeau.

Mr Michel will address the UN General Assembly which will launch the Post-2015 Development Agenda, with sustainable development goals at its core.

It is a vast universal development agenda, with 17 objectives and many associated targets, that aims to promote the social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainable and inclusive development. The goals and targets which will come into effect on January 1, 2016 will stimulate action over the next 15 years in areas of critical importance for humanity and the planet in order to change the world for the better by 2030.

This 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) will constitute one of the most important milestones in the organisation’s history as it will be the first time that world leaders pledge common action and endeavours across such a broad and universal policy agenda.

It will be recalled that Seychelles, under the leadership of President Michel, along with other fellow small island developing states (Sids), has been actively engaged in the discourse about the design and the shaping of the new agenda, as it has been with the millennium development goals and with major development-related processes.

Seychelles has made a strong impact over the past years within the UN system with its work through its active and constructive contribution in major conferences and summits, the outcomes of which have laid a solid foundation for sustainable development and have helped to shape the new agenda. In the process, Seychelles has emerged as a strong proponent of reaching a fair deal for Sids.

These conferences and summits include the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), the Lima and the New York Conferences on Climate Change, the Samoa Summit on Small Island Developing States, the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Reduction, and the Addis Ababa Conference on Financing for Development.

The priorities and concerns of Sids are well represented in the sustainable development goals. With this new agenda, the international system has now a sustainable vision for Sids and that AOSIS has a place on the global agenda.

Sids, as a group, have been able to leverage their vulnerabilities to advocate for stronger development partnerships. As effective negotiating partners, they have been one of the catalysts in the crafting of the new sustainable development agenda.

Island states, as barometers for development, have demonstrated global leadership and rapid progress in addressing sustainable development challenges and inspiring other countries around the world to do the same.

As an island nation Seychelles greatly appreciates goal 14 of the SDGs which refers to the sustainable development of oceans in line with the Blue Economy agenda that the country is spearheading. It recognises that the oceanic space is one which provides for the sustainability of the planet.

It will be an opportunity for Seychelles to underscore the importance it attaches to the new agenda and its determination to ensure its implementation, nationally, regionally and globally.

Indeed the world leaders have committed themselves to working to fully implement the new agenda, through a revitalised and enhanced partnership, in the spirit of global solidarity, supported by the concrete policies and actions outlined in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development adopted by the General Assembly on 27 July 2015.

This revitalised partnership will bring together governments, parliamentarians, the private sector, civil society, the United Nations system and other actors and mobilising all available resources.

Looking ahead to the International Conference on Climate Change in Paris in December, the President will re-emphasise the importance of reaching an ambitious and universal climate agreement and the need for real financing options to be made available to Sids. In this context, it will reiterate its call on all developed countries to fulfill their commitments for the mobilisation of US $100 billion annually by 2020 for the operationalisation of the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

The President will have the opportunity to meet the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon, and to express to him his appreciation for his inspiring leadership of the United Nations and his unwavering support to the needs and aspirations of Sids. He will also be meeting his counterparts and sharing his insights and perspectives on shared bilateral and global interests.

In the margins of the General Assembly session, President Michel will also take in the 2015 Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) annual meeting, at the invitation of Bill Clinton, former President of the United States of America. CGI will bring together global leaders from all sectors of society to develop innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

The CGI, having taken up the idea of Sids being guardians of the oceans, a concept that President Michel expounded during at the Samoa Sids summit in 2014, will at this meeting launch the Blue Guardians Initiative which is being developed into a global fund-raising development programme for Sids.

At the end of October, President Michel will take the Sids message on climate change and the Blue Economy to the India-Africa Summit in Delhi, India, as well as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta in November.

The challenges facing small island sates in reducing vulnerability and the ongoing Commonwealth project of ‘Building Resilience of Small States’, as well as the strategic vision for Small States 2050 will be discussed.

The meetings will be of key importance for garnering support for the Paris conference on climate change as well as accelerating the implementation of the outcomes of sustainable and inclusive development, with reference to the UN process on the Post-2015 Global Development Agenda and Financing for Development.

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Seychelles and Botswana set to deepen ties with signing of MoU in Education

Seychelles and Botswana set to deepen ties with signing of MoU in Education

15.09.2015

A memorandum of understanding in the field of education between the Ministries of education of the both the Republics of Seychelles and Botswana was completed today at Maison Queau de Quinssy.  The Minister for Education, Mrs Macsuzy Mondon and Dr. Unity Dow, Minister for Education and Skills Development of the Republic Botswana signed the document in the presence of Minister of Foreign Affairs and Transport, Mr Joël Morgan, which is set to deepen the cooperation in the domain of education.

The visit of the Motswana Minister comes after Vice President Danny Faure and Minister Joël Morgan held bilateral discussions in Gaborone in the margins of the SADC summit held only last month with the Motswana Government, seeking to reinforce the capacity of Seychelles in the field of education.

This memorandum of understanding will offer opportunities for Seychellois teachers to further their ability with higher-level training in that respective field as well as paving the way for teachers from Botswana to teach in Seychelles.

Currently, there are 20 teachers following first degree courses in the Botswana university with a view to increase that number, in the area of English language, mathematics, science and social sciences. In addition a first cohort of Motswana teachers are expected to arrive in Seychelles towards the end of the year following the singing of this MoU.

Speaking at a press conference following the signing, Dr Unity Dow, emphasised her Government’s plan to position Botswana as a high quality educational hub within the region. She remarked, “this opportunity will give Seychellois students access to a good foreign educational experience and in turn will have a cross cultural benefit whereby we experience each others unique cultural heritage.”

Minister Mondon opined that direct access to the great educational tradition of Botswana will pave the way for an expansion in overall scholarship and academia in Seychelles and have a lasting impact on our nation. 

On his part, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Transport, Mr Joël Morgan remarked that this memorandum of understating in the field of education would deepen the already excellent relations with Botswana and would lead to further areas for cooperation with the country. “Botswana offers ample trade opportunities and will reinforce the spirit of south –south cooperation as members of the same regional groupings, he said.”

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Congratulatory note sent to Singaporean Prime Minister by President Michel following Election win

Congratulatory note sent to Singaporean Prime Minister by President Michel following Election win

15.09.2015

President James Michel has congratulated the Singaporean Prime Minister, Mr Lee Hsien Loong following the People's Action Party's resounding victory in the country's General Elections.

In a congratulatory note, President Michel said "this victory is message to the value and trust that the people of Singapore have placed in your leadership. It is also a strong testament to the legacy of the late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew which has molded Singapore into the beacon of progress and innovation that it represents today." 

President Michel also spoke of the excellent relationship between Seychelles and Singapore committed to the sustained development of their countries and respective peoples. 

"My Government wishes to build on this concrete foundation, whereby two small states which share the opportunities of the same Indian Ocean and also common challenges, jointly push their agendas forward on the international scene. Seychelles stands ready to make this long-standing partnership which is based on friendship and trust, soar to new heights," said the President

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Coastguard divers hone operational capability

Coastguard divers hone operational capability

15-September-2015

Six divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG) are now better equipped to carry out underwater operations after receiving training which also certified them as dive masters at international level.

Yanick Chang-Time, Sony Cedras, Julian Morel, Dane Vardin, Ryan Benstrong and Elvin Hoareau are the six divers who endured the eight-week long divers training programme financially supported by the European Union (EU).

The training was facilitated by EUCAP Nestor’s experts in collaboration with Dive Seychelles and other experts such as Captain David Plow, Bernard Berlouis and Dan Laporte.

The trained divers received their certificates from SCG’s commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Simon Dine during a short ceremony yesterday morning at the SCG base at Ile Perseverance in the presence of the instructors.

The aim of this course was to develop the divers’ planning capabilities so that they have the ability to conduct safe underwater operations. As an added benefit the divers completed the course with a fully internationally recognised Dive Master Qualification.

During the training, the divers learned about navigation, wreck diving and deep diving. They also focused on further improving underwater operation techniques.

The module saw the divers undertake practical exercises culminating in the underwater inspection of a commercial tanker in Victoria harbour. This exercise incorporated all aspects of dive planning, safety and underwater maintenance. They were required to carry out effective hull inspections, as well as the use of power and welding tools underwater.

An important aspect of this course was the handling of explosive charges, essential for the disposal of unexploded ordnance or removing underwater obstacles.

EUCAP Nestor maritime expert, Lieutenant Flavio Sanguigni, said that these explosives were kept as small as possible to reduce the impact that it would have on the environment during the blasting.

Lt. Sanguigni pointed out that EUCAP Nestor donated equipment to the SCG in line with the EU’s ‘Train and Equip’ philosophy and in order to ensure that the SCG continues to have the ability to put into practice the skills learned in the course. These equipment included a defibrillator, a portable air bottle compressor, precision tools and power tools such as welders and grinders.

Lt. Col Dine thanked the EUCAP Nestor for its “great help” to Seychelles over the past four years.

One of the divers, Yanick Chang-Time, said: “The training was exciting and tough although the course was rather compact and we had to do various activities in a short time.”

He joined the SCG as he wanted to defend our country against piracy.

He said that this programme made him gain more experience and helped him to develop skills that he can now pass on to others.

During the ceremony Lt. Sanguini handed over to Lt. Col Dine a manual which comprises instructions and safeguards that the SCG can use to train other divers.

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Diguois need training, access to credit to develop Blue economy

15-September-2015

President James Michel visits businesses on La Digue

 

Many young Diguois have expressed the desire to work at sea, to obtain boats for diving business, excursions and fishing, but they need training as well as access to credit to start up these careers.

President James Michel said this after visiting a host of small and medium size businesses on La Digue at the weekend.

Accompanied by the Minister for Investment, Entrepreneurship Development and Business Innovation, Michael Benstrong; the secretary general in the Office of the President, Lise Bastienne; the principal secretary for Entrepreneurship Development and Business Innovation, Marise Berlouis; member of the National Assembly for the Inner Islands, Chantal Ghislain; as well as senior officials in the Office of the President, Mr Michel could see for himself how business is booming on the island.

“I had a great impression of businesses on La Digue... tourism is doing well on the island.... a lot of Seychellois on La Digue want develop guesthouses and we should facilitate this...there is a lot of potential for the development of the Blue economy here as well. I spoke to a lot of the young people, and I see the potential and the energy in them, they are very enthusiastic about it,” said President Michel.

He added that there are many young people who would like to work at sea, to obtain boats for diving business, excursions and fishing, and that they would need training as well as access to credit to start up these careers.

Known for its beauty, serenity and sweetness of life, La Digue depends a lot on tourism which is doing very good as all the guesthouse owners the President visited said occupancy rate is 90%.

“Tourism is doing well and a lot of Seychellois are involved in this field and many more want to join, so it is important that we ease the processes for them to join the industry,” said the President who added that the residents of the island appreciate the government’s moratorium on the construction of big hotels on the island.

This moratorium, according to the President, makes it possible that “only Seychellois can develop small guesthouses”.

This, he added, is “part of a policy to ensure Seychellois take ownership of the tourism industry, to create employment, and wealth, and conserve the environment of the island.”

The President also said many people want to expand their tourism establishments, and noted that he was encouraged to hear that the occupancy rates are high in the guesthouses, whose owners see a great future in the business.

The government would work to ensure that the business owners are able to get the loans facilities to develop, as well as encourage businesses that support the industry, like arts and craft, to flourish.

“The island needs more artisanal workshops,” said President Michel who noted that there are plans for a craft village at l’Union Estate.

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