Interview with USA Ambassador Henry V. Jardine and Chargé d'Affaires Adham Loutfi |19 October 2023
USA Ambassador Henry V. Jardine (left) and Chargé d'Affaires Adham Loutfi (Photo: Joena Meme)
‘Our engagement here spans various levels, with a focus on fostering prosperous growth within a democratic institution’ – Ambassador Jardine
Following the reopening of the United States of America embassy in Victoria, Seychelles, marking the return to a full-time diplomatic presence after a 27-year absence, Seychellois citizens are eagerly anticipating easier access to embassy services.
While those applying for a new United States of America (USA) visa still need to travel to Mauritius, there is ongoing work to streamline visa renewals within Seychelles. To delve deeper into the day-to-day operations of the embassy, future collaborations, and opportunities, Seychelles NATION interviewed the USA Ambassador Henry V. Jardine and Chargé d'Affaires Adham Loutfi.
Seychelles NATION: How would you describe the relations between Seychelles and the United States of America?
Ambassador Jardine: Since my appointment, I have visited Seychelles six times in just a few months. We are excited to continue building this relationship. Introducing Adham Loutfi, our new chargé d'affaires, is the first step in our ongoing efforts to establish a permanent presence here and expand our operations. Adham brings a wealth of experience to Seychelles, having served in various countries and held a senior position in the State department. Most recently, he came from Paris, where he served in an administrative management capacity. We are eager to utilise his skills to grow our presence in Seychelles, identify larger spaces, recruit additional personnel, and engage more with the Seychellois community. Our relationship is flourishing, and we have recently collaborated with the International Visitor Leadership Programme alumni. They had a chance to go to the USA and look at issues in managing fisheries, and this comes off of a recent initiative. We had to see how we can help and support promoting aquaculture industries here in Seychelles.
Furthermore, we recently welcomed a Fulbright scholar who, as a Cable News Network (CNN) editor, collaborated with the University of Seychelles to develop a journalism curriculum. These recent developments showcase the diverse range of activities we have undertaken. In addition, our efforts extended to hosting a team from our drug enforcement agency, providing crucial training to law enforcement officials in drug enforcement activities and investigations. These varied initiatives exemplify our deep engagement and commitment to building a robust partnership.
Chargé d'Affaires Loutfi: I am absolutely thrilled to be here, serving as the chargé d'affaires at the US embassy in Victoria. As Ambassador Jardine mentioned, this presents a wonderful opportunity for us to nurture and expand our relationship, strengthening the fantastic partnerships we have already established with the government and the people of Seychelles. Our collaborative efforts encompass a wide spectrum of global and regional priorities, including educational exchanges, promoting good governance, addressing climate change, and various other areas. I eagerly anticipate the next three years that I will spend in this country, working alongside all of you to further enhance and fortify this relationship for the times ahead. So, let's return to those initial questions.
Seychelles NATION: When do we expect to have a resident ambassador?
Ambassador Jardine: We acknowledge the importance of having a resident ambassador, and both the Seychellois government and the USA government agree on its significance. We are actively in the process of selecting an ambassador. However, this process may take some time, as my own nomination, for example, occurred in July of the previous year but was not confirmed until December. We ask for your patience in this matter. Until a resident ambassador is appointed, you have me, and I am committed to fostering a strong relationship through my active presence. We will ensure that the people of Seychelles feel a USA government presence, whether through my efforts or Adham's.
Seychelles NATION: What services will your office be providing in Seychelles?
Ambassador Jardine: For American citizens in emergency situations, we will offer support here. Additionally, we have a dedicated contact person on the ground who can help American citizens with any issues that may arise. If people have questions about consulate services, we recommend reaching out online via email, ensuring timely and efficient communication. Our goal is to provide seamless services to individuals in need.
Seychelles NATION: Will Seychellois still have to travel to Mauritius for a visa?
Ambassador Jardine: We understand the desire for visa services within Seychelles and are actively exploring options. Currently, those applying for new visas need to travel to Mauritius, which we regret. However, for those renewing existing visas, we are working to facilitate the process directly in Seychelles. We aim to offer more flexibility and convenience to reduce the necessity for travel to Mauritius. This is an area we are actively pursuing to enhance services for Seychellois.
Seychelles NATION: Why this sudden renewed interest in Seychelles?
Ambassador Jardine: It is not a sudden interest but a continuous one. Even during periods when the embassy was closed, we maintained engagement through various programmes, exchanges, and activities. We have had a consular agent on the ground. The decision to close the embassy years ago was primarily due to internal discussions in the US about efficiency and cost savings. However, it became apparent that there's only so much you can achieve from a distance. To truly engage and build connections, a physical presence is essential. Seychelles, with its expansive ocean territory, is strategically important, making it imperative that we reestablish our presence. We've done the same in several Pacific islands, recognising the importance of being more engaged in various communities. Our common goals with Seychelles, such as democratic institution support and security enhancement, have driven our commitment to this partnership.
Seychelles NATION: Why did you close the tracking station at La Misère?
Ambassador Jardine: The decision to close the tracking station was multifaceted. One contributing factor was the increasing maintenance costs and the ageing equipment. There were questions about the feasibility of upgrading the equipment and whether most of the tracking station's functions could be conducted remotely. Ultimately, for various reasons, it was determined that the tracking station had become obsolete. Regarding the USA embassy facility, we are actively seeking to identify a location for a new embassy. We are currently situated in the Oliaji building, and while we have a positive relationship with its owners, we aspire to expand. We are actively searching for a larger space that will accommodate our growing presence within an existing commercial space.
Seychelles NATION: What is your regional policy on security?
Ambassador Jardine: Our regional focus extends to multiple areas, including Seychelles, Antananarivo (Madagascar), and Mauritius. We aim to address transnational issues and challenges, striving to be the preferred partner for Seychelles, offering value, expertise, and support for its goals. We share common objectives such as promoting and sustaining democratic institutions, enhancing overall security, and addressing issues like maritime domain awareness. We conduct an annual Cutlass Express exercise and have provided various training programmes to enhance the capabilities of the local security forces. Our approach is one of collaboration with multiple partners. For example, there's the Regional Coordination and Operations Centre (RCOC), supported by the European Union (EU) through the MASE programme, which plays a significant role. We aim to complement these efforts. Additionally, the government of India periodically sends ships, and countries like France also have their ship visits here. Seychelles engages in cooperation with various nations, and we are keen to support these endeavours.
As we have mentioned earlier, addressing environmental and climate concerns is pivotal. We are also actively working to help Seychelles in sustainable economic diversification. Education is a cornerstone for Seychelles' growth, and we eagerly anticipate more exchanges in this domain. Our engagement covers various aspects, all aimed at supporting the prosperous growth of a democratic institution.
Chargé d'Affaires Loutfi: In the next three years, we have a robust programme focused on strengthening the relationship and working on issues related to good governance, money laundering, and more. In the initial months, I plan to listen to our local counterparts and partners before initiating specific actions.
Seychelles NATION: Many Seychellois have been asking about the type of investment to be made by the USA in the country. What can we expect in this regard?
Ambassador Jardine: Our investment in Seychelles takes various forms. We allocate substantial resources to international institutions such as the World Bank, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the United Nations (UN), where we are primary funders. These institutions, in turn, provide support to Seychelles. During the pandemic, the US invested significantly in various programmes led by the WHO, although it may not be immediately apparent, as we do not put big signs on buildings. Additionally, we invest in people, offering them tools for self-improvement and greater prosperity for their families. The aim is to equip individuals to improve their circumstances.
Seychelles NATION: Can we expect the President of the United States to visit Seychelles?
Ambassador Jardine: While it would be a fantastic prospect, it is challenging for any single individual to be everywhere all the time. The USA has a global presence, and Seychelles is significant to us. We will continue to engage with Seychelles through key officials in the department of State, such as the deputy secretary who came for an official visit to the Head of State President Wavel Ramkalawan.
Seychelles NATION: What are your thoughts on the ongoing war in Israel with Hamas?
Ambassador Jardine: The USA condemns the attacks by Hamas, which we consider acts of terrorism. We also emphasise the importance of protecting and caring for Palestinian citizens. We have provided substantial support to the Palestinians, amounting to around US $17 million. The US is actively working towards peace in the region through the visit of President Joe Biden.
Seychelles NATION: The United States is considered a role model by many, but the level of violence and racism within the country has raised concerns. What is your perspective on this?
Ambassador Jardine: The USA operates as a democracy where issues are openly debated and discussed. Strong criticisms often originate from within the country itself. It is a dynamic nation characterised by extensive debates. While violence and racism are issues of concern, acknowledging these problems is the first step towards resolving them. The USA has had to confront its legacy of slavery, discrimination, and violence. To its credit, the USA is open about these challenges and actively addresses them. Openness, transparency, and a commitment to improvement are values the USA shares, serving as a model in its own ongoing struggle. One of the positive aspects in Seychelles is its willingness to openly debate and address its challenges. If the USA can provide a model, it would be a model that emphasises openness, transparency, and the ongoing effort to overcome challenges. Martin Luther King had a dream for America, and we all share the aspiration of working towards that dream.
In conclusion, the United States and Seychelles are committed to building a stronger, more collaborative relationship, with a focus on shared goals, including democratic institution support, enhanced security, sustainable economic diversification, and educational exchange. The USA embassy's reopening signifies this dedication to furthering the partnership between the two nations.
Interview conducted by Vidya Gappy
