The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, and Vice-President of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Mr Han Zheng, today broke ground on a new 72 housing units project at Beolière, marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to deliver 2,500 homes by 2028. This reinforces the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Seychellois families and strengthening the enduring partnership between Seychelles and China.
The high-level ceremony which formally launched construction under the China Aid Programme, was attended by Vice-President Sebastien Pillay, Cabinet Ministers and Members of the National Assembly.
The Beolière project forms part of a broader Seychelles–China cooperation framework that will deliver a total of 141 units, including an additional 69 units at Cap Bonm Zan in Anse Royale representing a meaningful boost to the country’s housing stock and continued progress towards addressing national housing demand.
Designed as a modern residential community, the development will include essential infrastructure such as wastewater systems, green spaces and recreational areas, aiming to provide not just housing, but dignified sustainable and community-oriented living environments.
Speaking to the media, Vice-President Pillay, who oversees the lands and housing portfolio, reaffirmed that expanding access to affordable housing remains a central government priority, noting that the project reflects tangible progress in improving living conditions and delivering real outcomes for Seychellois families.
Vice-President Zheng’s presence testifies the strength of bilateral ties and the strategic role of Chinese support in national development. The partnership has consistently delivered high-impact infrastructure and social projects across Seychelles, reflecting a relationship built on mutual respect, shared priorities and long-term cooperation.
Arriving from Kenya on the final leg of his official Africa tour, Vice-President Zheng’s visit aims to deepen cooperation in infrastructure, trade, and people-to-people exchanges. During his stay, he is scheduled to meet President Herminie at State House tomorrow, Sunday, 29 March, and to tour key historic and cultural sites, and as well as Chinese-funded projects including the SBC House.
The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and China, highlighting a longstanding partnership and renewed momentum to future cooperation in areas that directly support national development and improve the lives of Seychellois citizens.
VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Chinese embassy officially launched the second China Film Festival on Friday, August 22, at the Deepam Cinema, marking the return of a showcase of Chinese culture and cinema to Seychelles. The festival is designed to give Seychellois audiences a window onto contemporary Chinese filmmaking and to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
The launch of the second edition reflects the continued interest in cultural exchange between Seychelles and China, building on the success of the inaugural edition. Films selected for the festival represent a mix of genres and themes, offering local audiences a diverse and accessible look at Chinese cinema. Organisers have expressed hope that the festival will further deepen people-to-people understanding between the two nations and provide a regular platform for cinematic collaboration.
Speaking at the opening, embassy representatives noted that the festival forms part of a wider programme of cultural activities planned in cooperation with partners in Seychelles, including film screenings, exhibitions and educational outreach. The festival is expected to run for several days, with screenings at the Deepam Cinema in Victoria. The festival also falls within a period of heightened bilateral engagement, with Seychelles and China continuing to work together on areas including trade, infrastructure, climate change and the blue economy.
