Delegates at yesterday’s closing ceremony

 
The two-day event, which took place at Le Méridien Barbarons Hotel and was attended by delegates from states and organisations around the world, was officially opened by President James Michel on Monday.

With those present separated into three working groups, a strong spirit of partnership was created and concrete plans for the way forward presented.

These groups tackled three main subjects – military and maritime issues, legal issues, and the question of Somalia – as outlined in the Seychelles government’s comprehensive maritime security plan of action.

The instability of Somalia featured high on the agenda, as well as the possible links between piracy and the financing of militant activity.

The symposium has benefited Seychelles in various ways as it has brought to light some of the realities faced by the country, the limits of our resources and what is needed to move forward in the fight against piracy.

Benefits that surfaced during the meeting include the promise of donations, such as the European Union representative saying they are ready to increase budget support to Seychelles in recognition of the hard work and leadership in the face of piracy.

The symposium has also brought stronger cooperation with other regional countries, with some saying they are well on their way to being ready to hold and prosecute pirates.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Paul Adam said the forum was an opportunity for Seychelles to share what we believe is the best way to address the challenge in an all-encompassing and sustainable way with our partners.

“We are very much aware that the solution to piracy does not lie with any one nation or organisation, nor is there a single remedy; these past two days are really one more step on a journey we are all taking together,” he said.

Minister for Home Affairs, Environment and Transport Joel Morgan – who is also the chairman of the High Level Committee on Piracy – said piracy is a threat that is rapidly spreading across the region.

All those present understood that this is not Seychelles’ fight alone but a fight for the whole international community, especially as the suspected link between piracy and other illegal activities such as terrorism becomes a real possibility, he added.

“Seychelles’ plan of action outlines what Seychelles needs for us to contribute fully to securing our portion of this great ocean and what we need to make those who work in the maritime trade and visitors feel safe,” said Mr Morgan.

He explained that the organisation and success of the symposium were the result of the active diplomacy of President Michel and the dynamic work of the High Level Committee on Piracy, which allowed Seychelles to take a regional and international lead in the fight.

After the symposium, the delegations were set to visit various sites on Mahe, such as the Montagne Posée prison, the Seychelles International Airport, the Seychelles Coast Guard base and the Victoria fishing port.