United Nations secretary general Ban Ki-moon will undertake an official visit to Seychelles from May 7-8 at the invitation of President James Alix Michel.

He is the first serving secretary general of the United Nations ever to visit Seychelles since the country joined the organisation in September 1976.

This visit is particularly timely and significant as Seychelles commemorates its 40th anniversary as a sovereign nation and its membership of the United Nations. It is a powerful testimony to the exemplary and fruitful partnership between Seychelles and the United Nations, as well as its agencies, in the political and socio-economic development of Seychelles over the years. This partnership draws its strength from the UN charter, the values it upholds and the opportunities offered by the organisation for friendship and cooperation with the international community. It is nurtured by a common purpose: the progress of people, peace, justice and prosperity in the world.

As Seychelles prepares to welcome Mr Ban and to express to him its appreciation for the role played by the UN in helping Seychelles attain nationhood, as well as his outstanding service and invaluable contributions to the UN, in particular in spearheading real action on climate change and sustainable development, the country will also celebrate the United Nations secretary general’s recognition that Seychelles and other islands have a voice and vision worthy of his attention and engagement.

It will be recalled that President Michel has built a personal and special relationship with Mr Ban and that government and other stakeholders have successfully used the UN as a platform for championing the agenda of Small Island Developing States (Sids), especially where it concerns combating climate change, promoting the Blue Economy, maritime security, realising the sustainable development goals, promoting gender equality, youth and women empowerment as well as dealing with other regional and global issues critical to Seychelles.

Mr Ban will hold bilateral talks with President Michel on May 7 and will be later hosted to a reception at State House.

It will be recalled that Mr Ban Ki-moon from the Republic of Korea is the eight occupant of the post. He took office in January 2007. This year marks the end of his second and final five-year term as United Nations secretary general.

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