The EIB’s vice-president Plutarchos Sakellaris called on President James Michel at State House yesterday, when they discussed a new start in the partnership between the bank and Seychelles.

“We discussed the possibilities of future cooperation between our bank and the people of Seychelles for the development of the country,” said Mr Sakellaris.

A team of water experts are due to arrive in the country today to look – together with key stakeholders such as the Public Utilities Corporation – at ways of adapting the local water network to a changing climate.

“Water is a big necessity and it is a big problem, since we have observed that Seychelles has just gone through a severe drought and might be facing similar situations in the future,” said Mr Sakellaris.

“So we want to know where we can help in projects to improve the efficiency of the water system and usage here.”

Mr Michel said during the meeting: “We appreciate the effort of the EIB in helping us to develop. Seychelles is contributing to the stability and security of the region, and we thank you for the landmark gesture of cooperation to ensure Seychelles stays well on the path of progress.”

The visitors said the EIB is the world’s biggest lender in climate change projects and they have seen the pressing challenges and needs relating to water, especially with changes in rainfall patterns.

Mr Michel spoke of the need to increase the country’s water storage capacity, especially in view of the recent drought.

He also said cooperation between the European Union and Seychelles is increasing and this will boost the economy.

“We appreciate the EU’s support, it is our valued partner,” he added.

 The EIB’s press officer Richard Willis said the bank is looking forward to working with all stakeholders, including the private sector here.

“We look forward to a very strong engagement with Seychelles in collaboration with other partners such as the EU,” he said.

An agreement will be signed today for an investment project that will see the EIB funding a fibre-optic cable boosting Seychelles’ internet links with the rest of the world.

Mr Sakellaris said he also talked with President Michel about the possible expansion of Port Victoria, a project he described as “a very important project for the Seychelles economy”.

“Whatever are the needs of the Seychelles economy or the government, we are here to promote cooperation between the EU and the people of Seychelles,” he said.

Mr Sakellaris, who arrived in the country early yesterday morning, will be here until Sunday.

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