VICTORIA, Seychelles — Seychelles and China celebrated the 50th anniversary of their Seychelles-China diplomatic relations at an elegant Chinese New Year reception held on Thursday evening at the Chinese ambassador’s residence, Panda House, Sans Soucis, marking both the arrival of the Year of the Horse and half a century of bilateral friendship between the two nations. President Patrick Herminie and First Lady Veronique Herminie, Vice-President Sebastien Pillay and his wife Lina, Speaker of the National Assembly Azarel Ernesta, and Chief Justice Rony Govinden were among the distinguished guests present.
The 50-year milestone holds particular significance for Seychellois who have benefited from decades of Chinese assistance across infrastructure, education, tourism, and now the environment. The occasion underscored how deeply the bilateral relationship has become embedded in the fabric of Seychellois development, with China remaining one of the country’s most consistent and consequential development partners. The growing Chinese-Seychellois community also adds a rich cultural dimension to the relationship.
Ambassador Lin Nan, in her opening address, explained that the Spring Festival—recognised by Unesco as an intangible cultural heritage—marks the transition from winter to spring and symbolises renewal and hope. She noted that the Year of the Horse represents strength, speed, and success in Chinese culture. The ambassador also launched the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges activity in Seychelles, with the Chinese embassy planning cultural events throughout the year, including a China Day Bazar on February 7 and the illumination of the Victoria Clock Tower on February 10. During the ceremony, Ambassador Lin Nan and Minister for Environment Marie-May Jeremie conducted the handover of supplies for the China-aided South-South Cooperation low-carbon demonstration zone, which includes solar power generation facilities, energy-saving materials such as solar street lights, off-grid solar energy storage systems, and bicycles destined for La Digue.
The relationship between Seychelles and China stretches back to 1976, and since then the two countries have cooperated across a wide range of sectors. Chinese investment and aid have contributed to major infrastructure projects on the islands, while people-to-people exchanges have strengthened cultural and educational ties. The Spring Festival reception has become an established tradition in Seychelles’ diplomatic calendar, reflecting the warmth that characterises the partnership.
Minister for Tourism and Culture Amanda Bernstein, in her address to guests, noted that the 50th anniversary provides an opportunity to acknowledge the long-standing presence of the Chinese community in Seychelles and to celebrate the mutual respect and friendship that has guided collaboration over five decades. Capacity-building efforts will continue with a focus on education, tourism, and infrastructure as priority areas where Seychellois stand to benefit most. The low-carbon demonstration zone project, now entering its implementation phase, reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience.
The Seychelles-China diplomatic relations golden anniversary reception affirmed that the two nations’ partnership, rooted in mutual respect and practical cooperation, is poised to deepen further over the decades ahead.
📷 Image source: Office of the President — statehouse.gov.sc
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