President James Michel on Monday was Guest of Honour at a colourful ceremony at Champ de Mars, Port Louis, to mark the 44th anniversary of the independence of Mauritius.

During a state banquet that same evening hosted by Prime Minister Dr Navin Ramgoolam, President Michel extended warm greetings from the people of Seychelles to the people and government of Mauritius.

“On the occasion of Mauritius’ 44th anniversary of its independence, it gives me great pleasure to share this moment with you.  I would like to congratulate the Mauritian people, as well as Sir Anerood Jugnauth, President of Mauritius, and the Hon. Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, on this further milestone in the road of development as well as their determination to continue to live the values that have made Mauritius such a strong friend of Seychelles, and such an invaluable regional partner,” said President Michel.

The President praised the strong relations between Seychelles and Mauritius and called for even closer collaboration in areas of mutual interest such as the fight against piracy and climate change.

“…Now is the time to nourish and deepen our relationship, to take new steps together, to look to the future not just as friends, but as partners with inseparable interests, as small island developing states determined to act together to make a difference in the world,” said the President.

The President detailed his approach to Seychelles’ foreign policy as “to first and foremost build a strong and prosperous circle of islands in the Indian Ocean”.

He noted that relations with Mauritius are of the utmost importance and have been reinforced through his close bonds with Prime Minister Ramgoolam.

“As the centre of gravity of the world economy swings towards the East, Indian Ocean nations like Mauritius and Seychelles have much to gain.  We are the natural harbours that can provide shelter from the storm.  We are the stepping stones between East and West. Increased trade and economic exchanges are the means by which we can propel our region to even greater heights. “

President Michel has invited Prime Minister Ramgoolam to attend the Seychelles National Day celebrations on June 18 this year as the Guest of Honour.

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