Consular representatives visit the National Assembly |24 April 2014

Consular representatives who are in the country for the biennial meet had the chance to visit the National Assembly of Seychelles yesterday where they met the Speaker, Dr Patrick Herminie, among others.

“This event is the first of its kind and may I therefore congratulate the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, especially Jean-Claude Adrienne for this initiative,” said Dr Herminie as he welcomed the representatives at the National Assembly.

He added that “members of the National Assembly further travel overseas to attend workshops and conferences, and to fulfil parliamentary diplomatic obligations. Needless to say, on such missions they very often need consular assistance. It is quite unfortunate, however, that in many instances, we do not know our consuls in those countries nor are we assisted by our ambassadors”.

“I do not wish to point fingers, let alone pick a fight, it is quite possible that we are ignorant of each other’s existence hence the utmost relevance of today’s meeting,” he added.

The consular representatives were introduced to the National Assembly, its constitutional responsibilities and the service it provides.

Based on the hour-long programme organised by the National Assembly the representatives enjoyed a tour of the building and even got the chance to visit the chamber. After the tour the representatives interacted with the members over a cocktail organised by the National Assembly.

Before visiting the National Assembly the consul representatives had the chance to visit the Palais de Justice too. And after their visit at the National Assembly they did some tree planting at the waterfront.

Speaking to the press, Dr. Otto C. Meier-Boeschentein, the consul in Zurich, said: “I am very impressed with the visit to the building and it has helped me better understand what is happening in Seychelles.”

Consul for Angola Ali A. Safa said “the visit was tremendous as it provided us with a deep insight of how the system here in Seychelles works. As I have a legal background the visit has also broadened my knowledge on the justice system of Seychelles”.

“I have discovered that Seychelles is very professional in its justice system, it was a pleasure to tour the two buildings with such magnificent structure. And this visit has enriched my knowledge and when I go back home I will be able to share my experience and what I have gained here,” said Florence Verney-Carron, consul in Lyon, France.