Victoria:Seychelles and France have signed a Regional Cooperation Framework Agreement aimed at strengthening cooperative relations between Seychelles and the island of La Réunion.
According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Seychelles, prior to the signing of the agreement, Seychelles' Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Barry Faure, and France's Minister Delegate for the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Éléonore Caroit, held a bilateral meeting. During this meeting, they discussed several topics of mutual interest, including the 50 years of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and France and the evolution of their cooperative ties over the decades.
Minister Faure expressed gratitude on behalf of the Seychellois government to France for its continuous support and contributions to Seychelles' development efforts. Specifically, he acknowledged France's assistance, alongside the European Union, in enhancing Seychelles' maritime security capabilities and efforts towards sustainable fishing.
Furthermore, Minister Faure conveyed the appreciation of Seychelles' President, Dr. Patrick Herminie, for the invitation to participate as Guest of Honor in the French national day celebrations in Saint-Denis, La Réunion, on July 14.
The meeting was attended by several dignitaries, including Seychelles' designated Ambassador to France, Beryl Samson, France's Ambassador to Seychelles, Anne Tallineau, and other officials.
Following the discussions, the two parties signed the Regional Cooperation Framework Agreement. Minister Barry Faure signed the agreement on behalf of Seychelles, while Minister Delegate Éléonore Caroit signed on behalf of France.
The framework outlines fifteen priority cooperation sectors, including culture, sustainable development, economic development, education, youth and sports, health (including the prevention of addictive behaviors), social sectors, tourism, transport connectivity, agricultural development, and the promotion of Francophonie in its diversity.
This agreement emphasizes the historical and cultural ties that unite Seychelles and La Réunion, as well as the fraternal and solidarity relations between the two islands. Through this agreement, Seychelles and France reaffirm their commitment to strengthening and revitalizing regional cooperation by promoting exchanges, partnerships, and the implementation of concrete initiatives for the benefit of both countries and their populations.