President Michel thanked Ambassador Kalinin for the support and effort he has personally given during his mandate, especially in the fight against piracy whereby he provided support and collaboration of the Russian Navy.

“I would like to thank you for all your support during your tenure, particularly in the fight against piracy as the Russian Navy patrols have been part of our partnership to combat the maritime threat. Your work has also been instrumental to develop the friendship and cooperation between our two countries, and has improved our already excellent relations,” said President Michel.

After the meeting held at State House, Mr Kalinin said he is happy relations between Seychelles and Russia have improved and are stronger as they have ever been.

He spoke highly on the measures being taken by the Seychelles government in combating piracy off the coast of Somalia and in the Indian Ocean.

“Russia highly appreciates Seychelles’ involvement in the fight against piracy and it has also sent four warships to take part in the mission. We will always be ready to help in any way we can and further see how we can curb this threat in the region,” said Ambassador Kalinin.

The coming of the warships to Seychelles was the first after a 20-year break since the break-up of the former Soviet Union.

Mr Kalinin also talked of the accomplishments during his tenure.

“There has been exchange of letters on pressing world issues between President Michel and President Vladimir Putin. There has also been the setting up of the Seychelles-Russia Friendship Society. Just to add that last month, the Russia-Seychelles Friendship Association was launched in Russia and a delegation is expected to travel to Seychelles soon.

“Trade between the two countries is expected to increase with the export of fish from Seychelles to Russia. Four Seychellois enterprisers are to start exporting fish to Russia soon,” said Mr Kalinin.

Mr Kalinin said he is looking forward to his next challenge – working in the international affairs department of the Russian parliament.

Mr Kalinin also paid a farewell call on National Assembly Speaker, Dr Patrick Herminie, at his office on Ile du Port on Monday.

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