VICTORIA, Seychelles — Former President Wavel Ramkalawan has issued a public statement addressing Seychelles’ longstanding One-China Policy, responding to recent public debate on the country’s diplomatic positioning. The statement reaffirms that the Republic of Seychelles established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China on June 30, 1976, and has consistently maintained this position across successive administrations.
The former president noted that Seychelles does not maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan and does not recognise it as a separate state. According to the statement, all government decisions regarding foreign relations are made in accordance with national law, foreign policy considerations, and applicable international obligations. The position has been a consistent feature of Seychelles’ diplomatic framework since independence.
According to the statement, requests involving state-linked aircraft or movements are assessed within the framework of the country’s established diplomatic position. Officials have emphasised that the policy reflects the country’s commitment to the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and the broader international consensus on the question. The approach has guided Seychelles’ engagement with both Chinese territories for nearly five decades.
The statement comes amid ongoing public discussion about Seychelles’ foreign policy choices and the country’s relationships with major global powers. Former President Ramkalawan called for unity and continued adherence to established diplomatic norms, noting that consistency in foreign policy serves the country’s long-term interests. He urged the public to engage with foreign policy matters through informed dialogue.
📷 Image source: Office of the President — statehouse.gov.sc
