A variety of local projects – especially housing – is set to benefit from a 40 million Chinese Yuan (approximately R90 million) grant from the People’s Republic of China.

The signing for the grant took place yesterday afternoon at the Maison Quéau de Quinssy between the Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Paul Adam and the Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Shi Zhonjun.

Also present was the Minister for Natural Resources and Industry Peter Sinon.
The grant will go towards projects such as the new Glacis primary school, Les Mamelles and Corgat Estate housing projects. 
The agreement will also cover a solar energy project, where street lighting in the country will eventually be made to run on renewable energy source.

“This project will contribute significantly to the reduction of the amount of fuel imported for street lighting in Seychelles,” said Minister Adam.

“We appreciate the role that China is playing in Africa and in the Indian Ocean and we know that China is a sincere partner who has continuously invested in the development of Africa.”

He added that China has recognised our vulnerability to the price of fuel around the world and that the solar energy project has also opened many doors for other kinds of development in this area and reduces the dependence of Seychelles on fossil fuel.

“China is a major partner where assistance is concerned for the country’s development,” he said.

“We are also working on a bio-gas project with China that will allow us to produce more energy through a renewable source.”

Mr Adam also reminded those present of the assistance that the government of China has given to Seychelles, such as donation of buses, renovation of the Roche Caiman swimming pool, construction of the National Assembly building and judiciary building, concessionary loans, which were later turned into grants, to name a few.

“We also look forward very shortly to the opening of the Anse Royale hospital,” he said.  
Ambassador Shi said China will continue to provide assistance and that Seychelles is a very good friend of China.
“In the last two years Seychelles did very well in the economic developments, and China would like to go hand in hand with Seychelles to face the challenges,” he said. 

Forrás: www.nation.sc