The President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Herminie, today welcomed the Advisor to the Prime Minister of Japan, Mr Oue Sadamasa, at State House, where Japan confirmed that construction of the new Marine Police Headquarters at Île Perseverance will be completed in June 2026, in time for Seychelles’ 50th Independence anniversary.
Marking a significant milestone in the enduring and evolving partnership between the two countries, Mr Sadamasa noted that the completion of the Marine Police Headquarters will substantially strengthen Seychelles’ operational readiness to address maritime crime. The project was highlighted as a flagship initiative, underscoring Japan’s steadfast support to Seychelles in safeguarding its vast maritime domain.
During the bilateral meeting, discussions centred on strengthening Seychelles–Japan relations, with particular emphasis on maritime security, capacity building, and emerging areas of cooperation.
President Herminie noted that, as a small island developing state with an extensive Exclusive Economic Zone, Seychelles faces inherent constraints in effectively patrolling and securing its waters. He highlighted the critical importance of partnerships with trusted allies such as Japan in strengthening maritime domain awareness, enhancing enforcement capacity for the coast guard, and combating piracy and transnational maritime threats.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to addressing a broad spectrum of maritime security challenges, in the Indian Ocean, including illegal fishing, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and piracy.
The President expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s continued assistance, particularly in training, technical support, and anti-piracy initiatives.
Looking ahead, Seychelles conveyed its interest in further capacity building, particularly in maritime patrol operations and in the operation and maintenance of the advanced systems and equipment associated with the new facility. The two sides also explored expanded cooperation in key sectors such as digitalisation, artificial intelligence, education, and health, areas where Japan’s expertise can contribute meaningfully to Seychelles’ development priorities.
As Seychelles and Japan commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties not only through development cooperation and institutional support, but also through strengthened people-to-people exchanges, recognised as a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship.
Mr Sadamasa also briefed the President on ongoing discussions regarding a visa-waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic passports, noting that deliberations remain underway.
President Herminie confirmed his participation in the upcoming Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), where he intends to further engage with Japanese leadership to consolidate bilateral relations and align cooperation with the evolving development priorities of both nations.
The two sides also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East, expressing concern over ongoing tensions and their broader implications for global socio-economic stability, while conveying hope for a peaceful resolution.
During his visit, Mr Sadamasa toured the Regional Coordination Operations Centre, where he observed first-hand the impact of Japan’s support and commended the collaborative efforts undertaken with international partners. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to continuing its close cooperation with Seychelles.
The Japanese delegation also paid a courtesy call on Vice-President Mr Sebastien Pillay, where discussions further underscored the strength and cordiality of Seychelles-Japan relations.
Mr Sadamasa’s visit to Seychelles forms part of a broader regional tour, that will also take him to Kenya and Ethiopia, further reflecting Japan’s strategic engagement across Africa.