Netherlands’ ambassador Makken presents credentials |11 November 2015

New ambassador designate of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Franciscus Makken, presented his credentials to President James Michel yesterday morning at State House.

President Michel and Ambassador Makken discussed several fields of cooperation that exist between Seychelles and the Netherlands, such as in maritime security, especially in the fight against piracy.

The President and Ambassador Makken shared views on their common interests for both countries and agreed to henceforth build on the excellent relations between them.

They also talked about various other areas of cooperation, where they hope that collaboration will continue to grow in the coming years such as in aquaculture and tourism among others.

Speaking to the national media, Mr Makken said he shared with President Michel the Netherlands’ concerns when it comes to piracy in the waters between Seychelles and Somalia.

“We have been on a common path in order to combat piracy. Our two countries have worked together and we’ve been successful,” said Mr Makken.

He added that the presence of cruise ships in Port Victoria is a good sign that they now feel free to come to Seychelles once again.

“This is very good news for Seychelles,” added Mr Makken.

Ambassador Makken noted that the Netherlands has also supported Seychelles to build an extra wing at the Palais de Justice and helped in the management of the Montagne Posée prison.

Also present during the meeting were the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Transport, Joel Morgan; the President's diplomatic adviser, Ambassador Callixte D'Offay; principal secretary for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Maurice Loustau-Lalanne; Netherlands delegate, colonel Willem Verweij; and honorary consul of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Seychelles, Albert Geers.