New British HC pledges stronger partnership with Seychelles |02 November 2023

HC Glekin presents his credentials to President Ramkalawan

Newly accredited British high commissioner (HC) to Seychelles, Jeffrey Frank Glekin, has officially replaced former British HC, Patrick Lynch.

In an accreditation ceremony held on Tuesday morning at State House, where he presented his credentials to President Wavel Ramkalawan, the new HC stated that it was a “great honour” to not only present his credentials, but also to be in the country.

Furthermore, HC Glekin thanked the country for its warm welcome.

Speaking to the local media following his meeting with the head of state, Mr Glekin said they discussed how to further strengthen the partnership between Seychelles and Britain.

He stated that he wanted the United Kingdom to be Seychelles’ closest partner, particularly in areas such as environmental protection, democratic values, cultural exchanges, youth and education and good governance as well as supporting the government’s ongoing task of modernising civil service.

HC Glekin’s previous post was as British ambassador in Bolivia. This is not his first time on a diplomatic mission but it is his first time as a high commissioner.

“That is something very special.”

He conveyed that being HC in a fellow Commonwealth country means a greater deal and an even greater honour.

When asked what he hopes to bring with his experience, HC Glekin stated that throughout his career, he has had a strong focus on environmental and climate change issues.

“I think it is the issue that is the most pressing. It is the issue of our times.”

Mr Glekin replaces Patrick Lynch who concluded his four-year tenure last month and he will be based in Seychelles.

Sunny Esparon

Photo by Louis Toussaint