Former President Ramkalawan demands clarity on Seychelles’ foreign policy |27 April 2026

Former President Ramkalawan demands clarity on Seychelles’ foreign policy

“Seychelles has been in international news as one of three Indian Ocean states which refused permission to the President of Taiwan to transit through its airspace on the way to mainland Africa. This is an embarrassment for Seychelles.

“Seychelles has a long established commercial relationship with Taiwan based on fishing agreements which have been beneficial to our country. Its citizens have been free to enter or transit through our territorial waters and airspace. Overflight permission to the Taiwanese President should not be an issue in our relationship with China.

“Seychelles has up to now maintained a policy of respect for the position of other countries without taking sides or allowing itself to be used in internal or external differences. It is in our national interest to continue on this course.

“After the proposal to grant India a naval base on Assumption Island and the extravagant overture to Moscow, it is apparent that (President Patrick) Herminie is re-aligning our position to suit a personal and political agenda. “Herminie must explain to the Seychellois people what course he is taking in international affairs.”

Press release – Office of former President Wavel Ramkalawan