Seychelles and the Philippines agree to expand collaboration |22 March 2023

Ambassador Fock Tave and Ambassador Tang in a souvenir photograh

Seychelles and the Philippines have agreed to expand on their collaborations to increase bilateral relations in various areas of mutual interest.

The agreement came about in a meeting between the principal secretary for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Vivianne Fock Tave and the ambassador-designate of the Republic of the Philippines, Marie Charlotte G. Tang, on Monday March 13, at Maison Quéau de Quinssy.

The two diplomats addressed ongoing and pending agreements, namely in the Tourism, Air Services and Agricultural sectors.

“Seychelles values the Philippines as a good partner, and as you take over this new role, we hope that during your tenure, we will be able to sign a few agreements for the benefit of both nations,” said Ambassador Fock Tave, who went on to acknowledge the hard work of Filipino nationals across various sectors which has benefitted Seychelles over the years.

To this effect, both parties have recognised the need to create mechanisms to ensure that all the correct procedures are followed and that the proper protection is extended to these citizens.

The two sides agreed that they will prioritise completing the negotiation on the ongoing Labour Agreement which they could sign in the near future.

Ambassador Fock Tave highlighted Seychelles’ need to diversify its tourism market after the Covid-19 pandemic and had high regard for the Philippines’ many cultural festivals.

Both parties agreed this could be an area for future cooperation in sharing of best management and marketing practices between the two countries.

Discussing issues relating to multilateralism, as archipelagos, Seychelles and the Philippines share common environmental challenges such as rising sea levels and climate change. In the interest of both parties, they agreed to continue to support each other in international fora and other international issues.

Their meeting took place on the eve of the accreditation of Ms Tang.

Press release from the department of Foreign Affairs