The visit is at the invitation of Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, and Mr Michel is accompanied by Minister for Home Affairs, Environment and Transport Joel Morgan, secretary of state Barry Faure, chief executive of the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) Alain St Ange, and of the Seychelles Hospitality and Tourism Association (SHTA) Jenifer Sinon.

Mr Michel is scheduled to meet Mr Zapatero today, and will also have an audience with King Juan Carlos I.

Talks are expected to focus on the ongoing cooperation programmes between the two countries, mainly in the fields of defence, fisheries, tourism, trade and investment.

The President has stressed that Seychelles and Spain have strong economic ties in the fisheries sector, as most of the European Union boats fishing in Seychelles’ waters are Spanish.

He noted that the two countries are determined to ensure that this vital industry is protected from the scourge of piracy.

“Spain is an important partner in security cooperation in the region, through its participation in the EU Atalanta operation,” he said.

“We have been working closely on a coordinated approach to fighting piracy. Our bilateral cooperation will continue to grow alongside increased commercial and investment links.”

The visit is also an opportunity to enhance commercial and trade ties between the two countries as the delegation from the STB and the SHTA will be holding talks with their counterparts.

“The Spanish traveller does not know enough about Seychelles, and this visit will be an opportunity to tap into the potential of the Spanish market for the Seychelles tourism trade,” said Mr St Ange.

“We need to explore new ways to encourage Spanish tourists to visit Seychelles.”

This is the President’s first official visit to Spain and is expected to strengthen the excellent relations between the two countries.