Port infrastructure development the new area of affiliation for Oman and Seychelles |26 August 2023

Omani Ambassador Saud bin Hilal Al-Shidhani during his meeting with Minister Derjacques (Photo: Contributed)

The new Ambassador for Oman, Saud bin Hilal Al-Shidhani has expressed his keen interest in partnering with Seychelles in the transport sector, more specifically within the marine ports.

This was said during a courtesy visit to the Minister for Transport, Antony Derjacques this week at the Botanical House.

The coastal country has similar transport challenges as Seychelles and wishes to expand ties for greater growth for both parties. Ambassador Al Shidhani explained that Oman with a population of 4.6 million faces certain difficulties to develop transport infrastructures. Yet with the good leadership of his Excellency Sultan-Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, the country is now making many reforms that are yielding good fruits.

Ambassador Al Shidhani explained various aspects of the Omani transport system and development while reiterating his strong desire for collaboration that will help Seychelles develop its port infrastructure, free zone, shipping line and ferries.

He has also extended his warm welcome for Minister Derjacques to visit Oman and witness the capacity of the Omani ports, namely the Port of Sohar which is the main commercial port taking up more than 60 million tons of cargo.

On the other hand, Minister Derjacques explained various ports achievements, namely the new Ero Terminal on Praslin which opened in February, the Baie Ste Anne maritime base opened last week and the inauguration of the La Digue port this week as well as the crucial redevelopment of Port Victoria that is expected to go to the tender phase very soon.

Both parties recognised that there is a need for improved trans-shipment within the East African region and the expertise of Oman will be most vital. Minister Derjacques explained that this will bring more efficient and rapid trade in the region and really enable Seychelles to be a trading hub for the region.

Also on the agenda for Seychelles and Oman is the upcoming International Commission for Air Navigation (ICAN) conference in December 2023 whereby an air service agreement is expected to be signed on the sidelines of the event.

Press release from the Ministry of Transport