Latest news with #Seychelles
Zawya
33 minutes ago
- Business
- Zawya
Collaborative work between Seychelles and the European Union (EU) continues to bear fruit
The Head of the European Union Delegation for the Seychelles, H.E. Ambassador Oskar Benedikt paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Minister Sylvestre Radegonde, on Friday 27th June 2025, at Maison Quéau de Quinssy. During their meeting, they discussed the cooperation between the European Union and Seychelles, particularly the status of the Port Victoria Rehabilitation and Extension Project and the implementation of the 'European Solidarity Action Plan with Seychelles', a Technical Cooperation Facility between the EU and Seychelles signed in 2024. They also touched on the progress of the ongoing negotiation to deepen and broaden the interim Economic Partnership Agreement between the EU and the Eastern and Southern Africa configuration (the latter comprises of Seychelles, Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius and Zimbabwe). They further discussed the EU's list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes and the efforts being done by the Government to ensure that Seychelles be removed from the list. The upcoming presidential and legislative elections was also discussed by Minister Radegonde and Ambassador Benedikt. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.
Zawya
33 minutes ago
- Business
- Zawya
Seychelles: Courtesy Call by Ambassador Jardine and Rear Admiral Mattis on Minister Radegonde
On Friday, 27 June 2025, H.E. Henry Jardine, United States Ambassador to Seychelles, and Rear Admiral Michael Mattis, Director of Strategic Effects at U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF), paid a courtesy call on Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, at Maison Quéau de Quinssy. The meeting focused primarily on enhancing maritime and defence cooperation, particularly through the ongoing initiatives of NAVEUR–NAVAF. Discussions covered the challenges faced in patrolling Seychelles' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the potential for leveraging drone technology to assist in maritime surveillance efforts. Minister Radegonde commended NAVEUR–NAVAF for its leadership in promoting maritime security in the region and for its continued support in building the capacity of the Seychelles Defence Forces through joint exercises. Notably, he highlighted the successful 2025 edition of Cutlass Express, which was conducted earlier this year under the leadership of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). Minister Radegonde also expressed his appreciation for the United States' participation in this year's National Day Parade, underlining the strength of the bilateral relationship. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.
Zawya
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Zawya
President Presides Over Official Handover of Landmark St. Louis Hill Stabilisation Project
President Wavel Ramkalawan presided over the official handover of the completed St. Louis Hill Stabilisation Project during an occasion held at the St. Louis Community Centre on Friday morning. This major infrastructure initiative represents a significant milestone in the nation's disaster risk reduction and community resilience efforts. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by President Ramkalawan and the Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Errol Fonseka, recognising the collaborative leadership that brought this transformative project to plaque will be temporarily displayed at the St. Louis Community Centre before being permanently relocated to the project site as an enduring testament to this achievement. Minister Fonseka emphasised the national significance of the project, highlighting its pivotal contribution to disaster risk reduction and community resilience. "The St. Louis Hill Stabilisation Project represents the first technically advanced, climate-resilient slope protection initiative in our country," stated the Minister. "It was meticulously designed to safeguard lives and protect homes from the increasing threat of landslides and rockfall hazards, which are becoming more frequent due to our changing climate. This is not merely a construction project, it is a symbol of national resilience, innovation, and forward-thinking governance." Project Leader Mr. Mikael Evenor delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the initiative's key objectives, milestones achieved, challenges overcome, and the substantial benefits delivered to the local community. During his address, he explained that five critical areas were identified for intervention: Waterloo, Belombre, Le Niole, and St. Louis upper and lower hills. These locations were selected to address "not only immediate threats but also to serve as practical training grounds for local teams and contractors." He attributed the project's success to the exceptional transparency and collaboration between the government, local teams, Swiss partners, and the community. Echoing these sentiments, Swiss Expert Mr. Ruedi Degelo characterised the project as "a remarkable success story." He urged the government and relevant stakeholders to give careful consideration to implementing preventive measures in other areas that could pose risks to life and safety. The ceremony also featured the presentation of completion certificates to project contractors and the ground team by President Ramkalawan and Mr. Degelo, in recognition of their unwavering dedication and expertise in delivering this critical infrastructure improvement. The successful completion of the St. Louis Hill Stabilisation Project reflects the government's steadfast commitment to investing in vital infrastructure that protects communities and supports sustainable development throughout the nation. The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests including Minister for Local Government and Community Affairs Mrs. Rose-Marie Hoareau, Minister for Land and Housing Mr. Billy Rangasamy, Member of the National Assembly for St. Louis Mr. Satya Naidoo, Director General for Disaster Risk Management Division (DRMD) Mr. Robert Ernesta, Chief Risk Management Officer DRMD Mr. Daniel Cetoupe, the Swiss technical team, members of the local implementation team, contractors, and invited dignitaries. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.
Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
Seychelles and Lebanon establishes Diplomatic Relations
In the spirit of promoting bilateral relations and the strengthening of friendship, the Republic of Seychelles and the Republic of Lebanon have formally established diplomatic relations through the signing of a Joint Communiqué on the 25th of June 2025. The establishment is founded on the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and respect for international law and cooperation, and will allow for the promotion of exchanges in various fields of mutual interests for the benefit of the two countries. The signing took place in New York between the Permanent Representative of Seychelles to the United Nations, Ambassador Ian Madeleine, and the Chargé d'affaires a.i. of the Permanent Mission of Lebanon to the United Nations, Ambassador Hadi Hachem. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.
Zawya
a day ago
- Automotive
- Zawya
President Ramkalawan Attends the Official Opening of State-of-the-Art Praslin Vehicle Testing Station
President Wavel Ramkalawan presided over the official opening ceremony of the new Praslin Vehicle Testing Station at Île Eve, Baie Ste Anne, Praslin, marking a significant milestone in the decentralization of transport services and the enhancement of road safety standards across Seychelles. The modern facility, construction of which commenced in 2023, was built at a cost of SCR 15.5 million and represents a major advancement from the previous manual testing system conducted at the SPTC depot in Amitié. The new station introduces cutting-edge automated testing technology, with 90% of vehicle inspections now conducted using state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring greater accuracy, fairness, and transparency in the testing process. The comprehensive facility also houses amenities for novice drivers to undertake theory driving tests and provides accommodation for visiting staff. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Minister for Transport Antony Derjacques emphasized the facility's broader significance: "Today, we open more than just a building – we open a new chapter in public service delivery, one that brings precision, professionalism, and parity in transport services to Praslin." The facility will serve Praslin's approximately 1,200 vehicles, which form part of the national fleet of 28,000. Beyond vehicle testing, the station will provide comprehensive services including spare parts importation assessments, vehicle condition evaluations for maintenance purposes, and technical assistance to police for accident investigations and spot checks. The Principal Secretary for Aviation, Ports and Marine, Mr. David Bianchi, highlighted the journey to completion, stating: "Despite challenges including COVID-19, material shortages, adverse weather conditions, and logistical issues, we have successfully delivered this world-class facility after 18 months of dedicated work." He expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering commitment and valuable contributions in realizing the project. In his keynote address, President Ramkalawan expressed pride and commitment of Government in advancing critical infrastructure at the disposal on the community. 'It is an honour for me to officially inaugurate the new Praslin Vehicle Testing Station—an essential step forward in modernising the services we offer to our people. This facility is a symbol of progress and a reflection of our continued commitment to improving infrastructure that directly benefits our communities. Together, we continue to move Praslin and our country forward.' The new Praslin Vehicle Testing Station exemplifies the government's steadfast commitment to building a smarter, safer, and more inclusive transport network that serves the needs of every Seychellois across all islands. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.
