GIS – 12 Mar 2026: “Mauritius and Seychelles are not merely neighbours. We are sister island States shaped by similar histories, common aspirations and confronted by the same daunting challenges”, said Prime Minister Ramgoolam. He was speaking, yesterday, at a banquet held at the Swami Vivekananda International Convention Centre in Pailles in honour of the President of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, who is on a four-day State Visit to Mauritius in the context of celebrations marking the 58th anniversary of the country’s Independence and the 34th anniversary of the Republic.
The banquet brought together high dignitaries, including the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Paul Raymond Bérenger; the Chief Justice, Mrs Rehana Bibi Mungly-Gulbul; the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mrs Shirin Aumeeruddy-Cziffra; Ministers from both Mauritius and Seychelles; as well as members of the Diplomatic Corps.
In his address, Dr Ramgoolam underscored that the presence of President Herminie is a strong affirmation of the enduring and fraternal ties between Mauritius and Seychelles. He noted that the two island nations, as Small Island Developing States (SIDS), share common histories, aspirations and vulnerabilities, particularly in the face of climate change and global shocks.
He congratulated President Herminie on his election and expressed appreciation for Seychelles’ longstanding support for Mauritius’ decolonisation process and its sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago.
The Prime Minister highlighted the fruitful discussions held yesterday, which focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing global issues such as the crisis in the Middle East. He reiterated the commitment of both nations to the rule of law and diplomatic solutions to international disputes. He also welcomed the signing of several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding in sectors including fisheries, phytosanitary cooperation, fire and rescue services, statistical development and culture, reflecting the complementary strengths of the two countries.
Dr Ramgoolam further referred to the joint management of the Mascarene Plateau, recalling the 2012 treaty that allows Mauritius and Seychelles to jointly explore and manage its resources. A new joint declaration on the sustainable development of the Joint Management Area was also signed, reinforcing the importance of protecting marine biodiversity. He also welcomed Seychelles’ decision to establish a Resident High Commission in Mauritius, describing it as a milestone that will enhance political dialogue, trade, investment and regional cooperation.
The Prime Minister also emphasised the importance of improving connectivity between the two island States, including closer cooperation between Air Mauritius and Air Seychelles, as well as potential collaboration on energy security through the Seychelles Petroleum Company. The Prime Minister underlined cooperation in education, culture and climate action, noting that 26 Seychellois students are currently studying in Mauritius and that initiatives such as the twinning of the Venn’s Town Cultural Landscape and the Le Morne Cultural Landscape illustrate the deep historical connections between the two nations.
For his part, President Herminie expressed his honour at being awarded the Grand Commander of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK) distinction, which he said symbolises the close and enduring relationship between the two countries. He highlighted the natural affinity between Mauritius and Seychelles, rooted in shared history, culture and geographical proximity.
He also commended Mauritius’ achievements since independence, noting the country’s strong institutions, democratic governance and sustainable economic development, while recalling the legacy of the Father of the Nation, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam. President Herminie emphasised that cooperation between the two island States remains practical and forward-looking, spanning sectors such as education, civil aviation, fisheries, maritime security, culture, trade and investment.
He reiterated Seychelles’ intention to further strengthen bilateral engagement, including through the establishment of a resident diplomatic mission in Mauritius. President Herminie noted that Mauritius and Seychelles will mark 38 years of diplomatic relations in June 2026 and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening strategic cooperation with Mauritius to enhance economic resilience and contribute to the prosperity of the Indian Ocean region.
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
