Seychelles and Japan Strengthen Bilateral Relations at TICAD 9 Summit

Strategic Insights -

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of Seychelles, Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde, held bilateral talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, H.E Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, on the sidelines of the TICAD 9 Summit in Yokohama, Japan. The meeting reaffirmed the solid bilateral partnership between Seychelles and Japan, with both countries discussing key areas of cooperation including maritime security, people-to-people exchanges, and tourism. The two ministers also touched on the importance of tackling illicit drug trafficking in the region and the need for continued support from Japan in this regard.

Key Takeaways:

  • The meeting between Minister Radegonde and Minister IWAYA reinforced the long-standing bilateral relationship between Seychelles and Japan, with both countries committing to continued cooperation in key areas.
  • Japan has provided significant support to Seychelles in the form of maritime law enforcement, counter-piracy efforts, and the construction of the Marine Police Headquarters.
  • Minister Radegonde expressed his gratitude for the Japanese Government's support and highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong partnership between the two countries to tackle illicit drug trafficking in the region.
  • Seychelles and Japan are also exploring ways to increase tourism arrivals from Japan and have agreed to support each other in the TICAD framework for a successful TICAD 9 Summit.
  • Minister Radegonde is accompanied at the TICAD Summit by Ambassador Anne Lafortune, Ambassador of Seychelles to Japan, Mr. Jonathan Pool, Second Secretary at the Foreign Affairs Department, and Mr. Danio Vidot, Protocol Officer at the Foreign Affairs Department.
  • The two ministers also discussed the on-going World Expo in Osaka, with Minister Radegonde congratulating Japan on the successful organization of the Expo and expressing his intention to represent Seychelles at the Expo national day celebrations in September.

Statistics:

  • Japan has provided significant support to Seychelles in the form of maritime law enforcement, counter-piracy efforts, and the construction of the Marine Police Headquarters.
  • The Marine Police Headquarters was constructed by the Japanese Government, providing Seychelles with modern facilities to enhance its maritime law enforcement capabilities.
  • The World Expo in Osaka is taking place from April to October 2025, with Seychelles set to participate in the Expo national day celebrations in September.
  • The number of international delegations attending the TICAD 9 Summit is expected to be high, with Minister Radegonde and his team aiming to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the event.
  • Seychelles and Japan have a long-standing bilateral relationship, with both countries committed to continued cooperation in key areas such as maritime security, people-to-people exchanges, and tourism.

Sources:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles
  • APO Group
  • Contify.com