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Seychelles is one of the few countries that have given real significance to their independence, which in itself would not mean anything if it had not been used for the wellbeing of all the people.

It is a fact that many countries have sadly moved backwards after gaining their independence, but in our case we have to be proud since all can see what we have done with our national liberty.

The value of independence was shown by the agony we all felt when 10 of us lost theirs to pirates recently, by the efforts we made and the prayers we said for their release and by our joy as a nation when seven of them regained their freedom.

It still hurts to remember that three of us are not enjoying the independence we have and reminds us how jealously we must guard it.

As President James Michel said not too long ago, June 29, 1976 symbolises the birth of our nation and was a well-deserved accomplishment after a long struggle.

It is a time to remember the brave sons and daughters of our islands who were at the forefront in the fight for nationhood.
Thousands of our brothers and sisters from all walks of life joined in the long march towards independence and, as Mr Michel said, we were part of a big movement of people who were determined to give our country its rightful place among the sovereign states of the world.

He said we were united in purpose, worked hard and shared the same hope and optimism that independence would bring progress and prosperity.  

As Mr Michel says, we are a nation that has not only prospered under independence but one that is forever looking for ways to do even better.

Unity, stability, democracy and development that have turned Seychelles into a model country for the world are some of the reasons we have to celebrate.

All our children, like the ones in our picture today, have equal opportunities in education, and we have access to a good health system while our senior citizens are well looked after.

Unity, despite our personal political or other persuasions, remains our biggest asset especially now as we chart our new course under difficult economic conditions and threats such as piracy.

We must, therefore, continue to Come Together as Seychellois so as to safeguard and make the best of our treasured independence and retain the valued bond that helps us to support any one of us whose economic or physical liberties, or dignity, are threatened.