SEYCHELLES FOREIGN POLICY

 

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all this evening to our annual
diplomatic reception. It is the occasion for me, on behalf of the President
and the Government of Seychelles, to express our gratitude to the
diplomatic corps for the partnership between the nations and institutions
that they represent, and also the occasion for us all to reaffirm our shared
commitments and the values that we share.

 

A profound systemic change is happening. We are facing a rapidly
changing global landscape, a shift away from so-called established poles of
centric power, might, influence and rivalry to a new system of relations
between states. Of course, “a new world order” is a highly debated and
controversial topic, with different interpretations and connotations
depending on political, cultural and ideological perspectives. Be it as it may,
advances in technology and communication, shifts in the political and
economic landscape, the rise of globalisation and interconnectedness are
all playing a role in shaping this emerging new world order.
Our position on this issue is unequivocal: we reject any order, by whichever
designation, based on force, coercion and threats, and on the
advancement of the sole interests and values of a few…
We believe that a more equitable and sustainable world order should be
based on cooperation, dialogue, solidarity, respect for the sovereignty of
nations and the rights of individual nations and individuals.
Above all, the emerging multipolar world order must be based on the
United Nations Charter, and grounded on respect for international law, the
right to peace and security, the protection of human rights, the
development of friendly relations among nations, and the universally-
accepted principles of democracy, the rule of law, equality, and human
rights. Such a world order would require the commitment of all nations to
work towards common goals, and to abide by the rules and norms in
accordance with the principles outlined in the Charter.

This is the new world order that Seychelles aspires to. Together with like-
minded nations – and there are many of us – we shall continue to work
towards that goal.
As this architecture continues to evolve and affirm itself, it is important to
understand the place of Seychelles in this new emerging world order.
The principles that guide Seychelles’ foreign policy are of capital
importance to the nation, and they reflect the values, culture, aspirations
and principles of our people. And Seychelles is committed to never
compromising on its principles, despite the challenges that we face. This
commitment is reflected in our actions and decisions, as well as in our
engagement with the international community. We are determined to
maintain our independence and to promote our interests, even in the face
of challenges and opposition.
Our foreign policy is simple and clear:
One of its key pillars is the promotion of stability and security in the region.
Seychelles has a long-standing commitment to regional peace and stability,
and we work closely with our neighbours and regional organisations to
prevent conflict and promote security. Seychelles has played a key role in
mediating conflicts in the past.
The country has hosted peace negotiations between warring factions and
has used its diplomatic skills to help resolve disputes between
neighbouring countries.
Stability and security are preconditions for our prosperity and livelihoods.
Piracy in our waters and in the area around the coast of Somalia posed a
grave threat to us. As a result of concerted efforts and international
collaboration, this threat has abated. But issues such as transnational
crime, in all its forms, and illegal and unreported fishing remain of grave
concern to us. We continue to address these threats.
As a peace-loving nation and as an active proponent of peace among
nations, Seychelles has been proactive in promoting disarmament and non-
proliferation, and has played an active role in the international community in
efforts to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction.

In terms of economic development, Seychelles is all too aware of the
importance of foreign investment, and has established a business-friendly
environment to attract investors. The country has signed several free trade
agreements and has worked to create a stable macroeconomic
environment to encourage investment in key sectors of the economy, not
least in tourism and fishing. Seychelles has also been proactive in
promoting tourism as a key driver of economic growth, leveraging our
natural assets to attract visitors from around the world.
Another key aspect of our foreign policy is characterised by an abiding
commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
Seychelles is one of the smallest countries in the world, but it is also one of
the most biodiverse. We recognise the importance of preserving this
precious natural heritage and work to promote sustainable development
and environmental protection both at home and abroad.
It is in the same context that we embraced the concept of the Blue
Economy as a means of promoting economic growth and diversification
while also preserving the country’s unique marine environment and
resources for future generations.
One of the main vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States is our
exposure to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels,
more intense and frequent natural disasters, and changing weather
patterns that can disrupt agriculture and fishing. These impacts can
undermine the very survival of some small island states and pose a threat
to the well-being of their populations.
In addition, SIDS often lack the resources and infrastructure to respond
effectively to natural disasters and humanitarian crises, making them highly
dependent on foreign aid and assistance. This can leave them vulnerable
to external influence and undermine their sovereignty and independence.
That is why a key feature of our foreign policy is our forceful and consistent
advocacy for the global adoption of a Muti-Dimensional Vulnerability Index.
Notwithstanding our efforts, our key partners, the real decision-makers, are
not yet ready to give it the consideration the MDVI merits. But we shall
keep pushing for it. Hopefully, someday, the message will get through!

Finally, yet another pillar of Seychelles’ foreign policy is the protection of its
sovereignty and independence. Seychelles is a proud and independent
nation, and it is committed to maintaining its independence and protecting
its national interests. This pillar is critical to Seychelles ability to determine
its own future and to pursue its national goals and objectives.

 

With the emerging world order, we are seeing a shift towards multipolarity,
with multiple powers vying for influence and power. Not least in our own
region, which is becoming a major theatre of economic and strategic
power. This is changing the traditional relationships between states, and
creating new opportunities and challenges for Small Island Developing
States like Seychelles. Despite its small size, Seychelles has been
proactive in engaging with the international community, building and
reinforcing relationships with major powers, and participating in regional
organisations to promote stability, peace, cooperation and security in the
region. In many instances, we had been punching above our weight!

 

I am glad to have had the opportunity to address you tonight on some of
the main features of the foreign policy of Seychelles, on how we see the
emerging new world order and Seychelles’ place in it.”