Seychelles gets new EU ambassador |04 October 2023

Mr Benedikt presents his credentials to President Ramkalawan

The newly appointed European Union ambassador to Seychelles, Oskar Benedikt, formally presented his credentials to President Wavel Ramkalawan at State House yesterday morning.

Following his meeting with the President and Vice-President Ahmed Afif, Ambassador Benedikt spoke with the press, shedding light on the primary agenda of their discussion: strengthening the relationship between the European Union (EU) and Seychelles.

Expressing his delight at returning to Seychelles as the EU ambassador, Mr Benedikt praised the country's beauty and its warm-hearted people.

He highlighted the diverse topics covered during the meeting, emphasising the significance of the EU's role in Seychelles.

“The EU accounts for approximately 50% of Seychelles tourists, holds the position of Seychelles' leading trading partner, and has several agreements in place, primarily in the field of fisheries.”

Ambassador Benedikt also stressed on the EU's commitment to maintaining friendly relations with Seychelles.

He elaborated on discussions related to crucial issues such as marine protection, maritime security, and the far-reaching impacts of climate change.

Stressing the importance of collaborative efforts to mitigate climate change effects, he emphasised the need for joint action.

Regarding fisheries agreements, the ambassador informed the press that “negotiations for a regional agreement are currently in progress. The EU aims to conclude this agreement in a timely manner. Additionally, there are the ongoing fisheries agreement that includes provisions for sea protection and investments in an environmental fund for the removal of debris from the fishing industry”.

The ambassador also touched upon the shared concerns of illegal fishing and illegal drug trading, indicating future cooperation in these areas.

Ambassador Benedikt has been appointed for a four-year tenure and will be based in Mauritius and is fluent in German, English, French and Spanish.

Before his appointment as EU ambassador to Mauritius and Seychelles, he was the head of division in the European external Action service in Brussels. He also worked in Vienna, Serbia, Russia, Croatia, Turkey and Austria.

Vidya Gappy

Photo: Joena Meme