Seychelles and Cyprus sign accord
18.12.2009
Seychelles and Cyprus signed an agreement yesterday to strengthen the bilateral cooperation between the two countries and to promote talks on regional and international matters.
The agreement was signed by foreign affairs principal secretary Barry Faure and the outgoing Cypriot high commissioner Vassos Chamberlen at the Maison Quéau De Quincy, Mont Fleuri.
Mr Faure said the agreement will bring the people and governments of the two countries closer and provide a framework to conduct political meetings on bilateral, regional and international issues.
He said topics to be discussed at these talks would concern both countries – for instance the issue of piracy – and the first meeting is expected to take place next year.
Mr Faure said the agreement is beneficial to Seychelles as we need to count on the support of countries that are members of the European Union and can defend our interests.
He said close links with Cyprus started when Archbishop Makarios was exiled here in 1956, well before diplomatic relations between the two countries were established.
Mr Faure also took the opportunity to thank Mr Chamberlen for his excellent work, support and cooperation during his three-year mandate.
Mr Chamberlen expressed his appreciation to the government of Seychelles. He said the talks will bring officials from both countries together to discuss many important issues.