Seychelles champions ocean action in Monaco |06 June 2026
Guests with a copy of the ‘Indian Ocean Expedition 2022 Final Report’
Seychelles recently took part in the 17th Monaco Blue Initiative (MBI) and the 2nd Blue Economy and Finance Forum (BEFF), held from May 27–29 in Monaco. Both events were organised by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and the Oceanographic Institute, with support from the government of Monaco.
The Seychelles delegation was led by Principal Minister Wallace Cosgrow, Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and the Blue Economy, accompanied by Secretary of State Alain de Comarmond, Director General Chrissant Barbe, and Ambassador Kenneth Racombo.
Launch of Indian Ocean Expedition Report
Alongside Mauritius, the delegation attended the official launch of the ‘Indian Ocean Expedition 2022 Final Report’, published by Monaco Explorations. Minister Cosgrow and Mr Barbe, Seychelles’ JMA Focal Point, joined their Mauritian counterparts in signing the report, which documents Monaco’s research expeditions in the waters of Seychelles, Mauritius, La Réunion, and the Joint Management Area.
Keynote on ocean governance
At the MBI, discussions focused on transforming political ambition, scientific expertise, and financial mobilisation into concrete ocean action. Minister Cosgrow delivered a keynote address during the session ‘BBNJ and High Seas MPAs – Looking Ahead’. He highlighted Seychelles’ leadership in negotiations leading to the ratification of the BBNJ Agreement – becoming the first African nation and fourth globally to do so. He also outlined plans for domestic implementation of the treaty and reaffirmed Seychelles’ achievement of its 30x30 marine conservation goal through the completion of the Marine Spatial Plan.
Financing the Blue Economy
The delegation also attended the BEFF, which brought together stakeholders – particularly from the private financing sector – to explore opportunities for investment in the blue economy. Discussions centred on innovative financing models and unlocking private capital for sustainable ocean development.
Bilateral engagements
During both events, Seychelles held bilateral meetings with the Monaco Oceanographic Institute and Monaco Explorations, while also engaging with various organisations on potential collaborations. Minister Cosgrow gave several media interviews, further amplifying Seychelles’ role as a champion of ocean governance and sustainable blue economy development.
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