He was accompanying Rear-Admiral Juan Rodriguez, commander of the European Union (EU) Naval Force in the Indian Ocean and of the Spanish naval vessel SPS Canarias, which is now in Port Victoria.

French ambassador Philippe Delacroix and British high commissioner Matthew Forbes were also present during the visit.

Mr Gaspar said they are here to convey to Mr Michel a message from the EU and to underline their firm commitment in the fight against piracy.

The EU is working with Seychelles to end this threat, he added.

He said they share some views on how to strengthen the regional approach, and greatly appreciate the effort by Seychelles to tackle this issue.

“But it is vital to keep a global approach, strengthen regional cooperation against this threat and tackle the root causes of the problem on the ground in Somalia,” added Mr Gaspar.

“Instability and weak institutions in Somalia are the root causes of this problem.”

He said they also support the recent action by Seychelles in signing agreements with both governments in Mogadishu and regional authorities relating to the transfer of prisoners.

Rear-Admiral Rodriguez said they will provide training for the Seychelles Coast Guard, and he met the authorities on Wednesday to discuss the support they can give.

The Canarias was patrolling the Indian Ocean region for about two weeks before coming to Seychelles, and the crew are expected to leave in two days.