GIS- 11 March 2026: The Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam and the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the existing diplomatic, economic and cultural partnerships while reflecting on the shared priorities for the Indian Ocean region, today, during a ceremony held at the Sir Harilal Vaghjee Memorial Hall in Port-Louis.
The event was also marked by the exchange of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in several fields including fisheries, agriculture, fire and rescue services, statistical development and arts and culture, thus reinforcing the spirit of cooperation between the two nations.
In a statement the Prime Minister recalled the enduring bond and shared destiny between Mauritius and Seychelles, highlighting that the both nations are headed towards a future-oriented and strategic partnership aimed at advancing the well-being and prosperity of their peoples. The friendship will be further consolidated by a new chapter in the diplomatic relations with the establishment of a Resident High Commission of Seychelles in Mauritius, he stated.
Underscoring the shared commitment of Mauritius and Seychelles to sustainable ocean governance, Prime Minister Ramgoolam indicated that a Joint Declaration on the Sustainable Development of the Joint Management Area of the Continental Shelf in the Mascarene Plateau Region was signed. Mauritius and Seychelles, he said remain determined to ensure maritime security in the region, including strengthening collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking and illegal fishing.
Referring the Middle East conflict and its impact on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Dr Ramgoolam underlined that Seychelles has conveyed its support to Mauritius with regard to strategic fuel storage and energy security.
He noted that the two countries agreed to continue advocating for fair and accessible climate finance, responsible ocean governance, and deeper cooperation in financial services. Discussions also addressed cooperation within the Southern African Development Community particularly in relation to peacekeeping frameworks and financing modalities.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam reiterated Mauritius’s steadfastness as a friend and true partner of Seychelles and affirmed that the two islands will remain united in vision and purpose and shape their own destiny while contributing to peace and stability in the region.
President Herminie, for his part, highlighted the shared commitment of Mauritius and Seychelles to regional priorities, including maritime security, climate resilience, and sustainable ocean management. The establishment of a Seychelles diplomatic mission in Mauritius will further enhance coordination, foster people-to-people engagement, and strengthen collaboration across key sectors, he said.
As regards Mauritius’ key role in hosting the Indian Ocean Commission and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, he expressed confidence that a stronger presence of Seychelles will contribute more effectively to maritime security, climate resilience, and sustainable management of ocean resources.
The President expressed gratitude to Mauritius for its support in education and human resources development and sought Mauritius’ expertise in social protection and pension coverage. Both nations, he said, have underscored shared responsibility in trade, investment, and financial services. He also accentuated on accessible climate finance for SIDS guided by a multi-dimensional vulnerability index.
Speaking on the MoUs, he pointed out that practical frameworks will further strengthen collaboration in several sectors adding that stability, transparency and constructive engagement are essential for promoting peace and dialogue.
Both leaders addressed the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East and its implications for SIDS emphasising the importance of strong diplomatic engagement and international cooperation. They reiterated their commitment to enhancing air and maritime connectivity, including exploring the development of a regional shipping mechanism to better integrate island and coastal states with continental markets.
MoUs and Programme of Cooperation
- MoU between Statistics Mauritius of the Republic of Mauritius and the National Bureau of Statistics of the Republic of Seychelles on Cooperation in the Area of Statistical Development
- Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Mauritius and the Government of the Republic of Seychelles on Access for Seychelles Vessels to the Mauritius Fishing Zone
- Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Mauritius and the Government of the Republic of Seychelles on Access for Mauritius Vessels to the Seychelles Fishing Zone
- MoU between the Republic of Mauritius and the Republic of Seychelles in Agriculture, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Issues
- MoU between the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service of the Government of the Republic of Mauritius and the Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency of the Government of the Republic of Seychelles
- Programme of Cooperation in the Fields of Arts and Culture for the Years 2026–2029 between the Government of the Republic of Mauritius and the Government of the Republic of Seychelles
- Twinning MoU between Le Morne Heritage Trust Fund of the Republic of Mauritius and the National Heritage Resource Council of the Republic of Seychelles
Prior to exchange of the MoUs, President Herminie had a tête-à-tête with Prime Minister Ramgoolam at the Treasury Building. He also participated in a Delegation Level Meeting.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov
