The visiting European Investment Bank (EIB) president Werner Hoyer has hailed Seychelles’ economic reform process. 

He was speaking to the press after leading a high-level delegation from the bank on a visit to Vice-President Danny Faure at State House yesterday afternoon.

The delegation – who included the European Union ambassador to Seychelles Alessandro Mariani – discussed EIB activities in the country with VP Faure.

The EIB team was accompanied by a delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 
Mr Hoyer said the EIB has had a long tradition of cooperation with Seychelles dating for more than 30 years.

“For the last couple of years, the relationship and cooperation has expanded considerably, especially with projects like the new fibre-optic cable arriving here recently,” he said.

“We have also embarked with the European Union in a number of activities in the field of telecommunications, energy, environment, water (in Seychelles), which we aim to continue working in close collaboration on.”

Having only been in office for eight months, Mr Hoyer said he is still getting familisarised with what the EIB is doing around the world and this is his first trip outside of the EU, and Seychelles is a place which they have successful cooperation with.

“The VP and I discussed a number of topics which touched on the appreciation in Europe for the very bold and courageous reform process that this country has taken upon itself to embark on, which has turned out to be very successful. This is an example for the African region and more countries should consider taking the reform attitude as well,” added Mr Hoyer.

He also expressed his appreciation for the country’s efforts in the fight against piracy, to which he said “Seychelles is giving a remarkable contribution”.

“We also talked about support for small and medium enterprises, which we are going to sign a memorandum of understanding on, and we also talked about the successful completion of the fibre-optic cable, although not yet fully operational.”

The EIB has been active in Seychelles since the first credit line to the Development Bank of Seychelles was agreed on in 1978. Since then, EIB funding and technical help have supported private sector investment, water and improved communications.

Forrás: www.nation.sc