Seychelles Ambassador Racombo Presents Credentials to EU Council President
VICTORIA, Seychelles, Seychelles’ resident Ambassador in Brussels, Kenneth Racombo, presented his credentials to the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, on February 14, 2024. The presentation of credentials is a standard diplomatic procedure that marks the formal recognition of an ambassador by the host institution. The ceremony took place at the European Council headquarters in Brussels.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Racombo and the president of the European Council had the opportunity to discuss matters of mutual interest, namely the Samoa Agreement, the interim economic partnership agreement, development of the blue economy, climate change related issues, maritime security, and the EU list of non-cooperation jurisdictions on tax matters. The wide-ranging discussion reflected the depth of the relationship between Seychelles and the European Union. Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact on these important issues.
The Samoa Agreement, which succeeded the Cotonou Agreement, sets out the framework for cooperation between the EU and African, Caribbean, and Pacific states. It covers a broad range of issues including development cooperation, climate action, and human rights. The interim economic partnership agreement continues to govern trade relations between Seychelles and the EU, with both sides working towards a full economic partnership agreement that would further deepen economic ties.
On the blue economy, Ambassador Racombo highlighted the progress that Seychelles has made in developing the sector sustainably, including the designation of 30 percent of its exclusive economic zone as marine protected areas. The ambassador also raised climate change issues, noting that small island developing states like Seychelles are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. He called for continued EU support for climate adaptation in vulnerable states.
Maritime security was another important topic of discussion, with both sides acknowledging the need for continued cooperation to address challenges such as illegal fishing, piracy, and drug trafficking in the Indian Ocean region. The EU list of non-cooperation jurisdictions on tax matters was also discussed, with Ambassador Racombo reaffirming Seychelles’ commitment to maintaining a transparent and fair tax system. The meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between Seychelles and the EU across a range of critical issues.
