President Michel, PM Bérenger acclaim Seychelles-Mauritius ties |11 December 2004

At the reception – held in the grounds of State House to mark the visit of the Mauritian Premier – both President Michel and PM Bérenger praised the links between their two countries and reiterated their desire that these ties be further strengthened.

The event was attended by politicians, diplomats, non-governmental, business and religious leaders, who were told by President Michel that the visit of Mr Bérenger is, "an expression of the desire of our two countries to strengthen the ties of friendship that unite our people."

"Mauritius and Seychelles have much in common and for many years now we have been joining forces in building a strong and mutually beneficial cooperation," said President Michel, whose words were echoed by PM Bérenger, who arrived in Seychelles on Tuesday.

"The distance which physically separates us is in fact bridged by a host of commonalities: shared history and a common heritage, the same vibrant cultural diversity, a total commitment to democracy and the rule of law and above all, nou koz kreol," said Mr Bérenger.

The Mauritian premier went on to emphasise the importance of bilateral collaboration at the level of regional and international groupings and placed particular importance on the common cause of Small Island Developing States (Sids).

"Regional cooperation and integration provide us with tremendous opportunities to better perform and deliver in today's globalised world economy....indeed our quest is for a balanced approach reconciling trade liberalisation with universal solidarity towards the weak and vulnerable," said Mr Bérenger.

These sentiments were reinforced by President Michel, who said that Seychelles and Mauritius are united by a shared dedication to, "a new world order based on more equity, justice and solidarity between developed and developing countries and to sustainable development, in such a way that Sids are not marginalised but count as important members of the international community."

Mr Bérenger also expressed his appreciation for Seychelles' support for Mauritius' bid to reclaim sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago.

"Mauritius does rely on Seychelles' continuous support in its endeavour to restore the exercise of its sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago," said Mr Bérenger, shortly after President Michel had reaffirmed his government's continued backing for the Mauritian position.

Mr Bérenger's first prime ministerial visit to Seychelles wraps up this morning when he departs from Mahé International Airport for Mauritius.