Annual diplomatic cocktail - ‘Diplomats are conduit for Seychelles’ ideas to the world’ |18 February 2017

Ambassadors and high commissioners are the conduit for Seychelles’ ideas to the world and their contribution is immeasurable.

Designated Minister Macsuzy Mondon, who is also the Minister for Local Government, said this when addressing ambassadors and high commissioners during the annual diplomatic cocktail held last night at the Savoy Resort & Spa.

President Danny Faure graced the ceremony with his presence. Also present were the president of the Court of Appeal Francis McGregor, ministers, leader of the opposition in the National Assembly Wavel Ramkalawan, leader of government business in the National Assembly Charles De Commarmond, Foreign Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Marie-Louise Potter, secretaries of state, members of the National Assembly, principal secretaries and the dedicated staff of Maison Quéau de Quinssy.

“We deeply appreciate your engagement in widening our reach and helping to deepen Seychelles’ ties to your countries of representative,” Designated Minister Mondon told the ambassadors and high commissioners.

Expressing the country’s sincere gratitude for their unwavering support and collaboration, Designated Minister Mondon told the ambassadors and high commissioners that “Seychelles remains committed in its engagement with its partners within the diplomatic community”.

She also noted that like elsewhere in the world, momentous shifts have also touched Seychelles, in particular the realignment of the political landscape.

“2016 saw parliamentary elections resulting in the National Assembly consisting of a majority from an opposition coalition; a new presidential administration; and an unprecedented period of political cohabitation,” added Mrs Mondon.

Speaking as Dean of the diplomatic corps here, Russian Ambassador Vladimir Belous, also noted that the year 2016 was historical for Seychelles in terms of the results of the parliamentary elections, adding that the diplomatic corps has always followed with great interest and sympathy the development of political situation and democratic changes in the country.

“We welcome the fresh approach that was introduced by President Faure towards reconciliation and national unity, which created a totally new environment where in mutual desire and respect two branches of powers – executive and legislative represented by major political forces – are working together for the benefit of the people,” said Ambassador Belous.