Japanese ambassador pays courtesy call on Speaker of the National Assembly |15 March 2023
The ambassador of Japan to Seychelles, Okaniwa Ken, paid a courtesy call on the Speaker of the National Assembly, Roger Mancienne, on Thursday last week.
Hon. Mancienne was accompanied by the deputy Speaker, Gervais Henrie, and the deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Alexandria Faure.
Ambassador Okinawa was accompanied by the chargé d’affaires in the embassy of Japan in Victoria, Ambassador Kato Eiji, and the Japanese defense attaché Commander KatsumataTakao.
The discussion began with an honourable mention of the historic relationship between Seychelles and Japan, with Ambassador Okaniwa noting that he much appreciated the last meeting held with Hon. Mancienne and parliamentarians from Japan.
This followed with a comment on the similarities experienced and the shared concerns of both countries today.
A main point of the conversation was focused on maritime security and developments in the future of Seychelles’ agriculture/aquaculture. Ambassador Okaniwa emphasised that developments of the industry, for example fish farming, would be an excellent way to renew the friendship between Seychelles and Japan and provide new avenues for investment.
Hon. Mancienne continued the discussion by noting that improved airlinks would be an excellent addition to the Seychelles-Japan relationship, and that increased training among both populations would be a benefit to all.
Ambassador Okaniwa listed climate change, disaster management, fishing, and environmental protection and waste management as potential areas where Japan could begin implementing training programmes. Commander Katsumata mentioned that during his stay in Seychelles he was currently involved in the provision of training and support to Seychelles maritime forces.
The meeting concluded with Hon. Mancienne presenting Ambassador Okaniwa with a token of appreciation, before extending his thanks and wishing him well for the future.
Press release and photos from the National Assembly secretariat
