Victoria — Foreign Minister Ambassador Barry Faure completed bilateral meetings in Geneva on May 7-8, engaging with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and United Nations officials as part of Seychelles’ enhanced diplomatic presence in Switzerland.
At CERN, Switzerland, Minister Faure highlighted longstanding ties between the two nations, noting that while cooperation remains modest, it has proven effective in health, tourism, environment, and drug rehabilitation. He emphasized that establishing Seychelles’ first resident ambassador in Switzerland marks a significant step toward deepening engagement and expanding opportunities. Faure expressed appreciation for Switzerland’s financial support, particularly contributions to the Climate Fund.
Minister Cassis reaffirmed Switzerland’s readiness to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, underscoring commitment to multilateralism and seeking Seychelles’ support in advancing this principle. He welcomed closer collaboration following Seychelles’ enhanced diplomatic presence.
On May 8, Minister Faure met with the director-general of the United Nations Office in Geneva. He conveyed Seychelles’ gratitude to the UN secretariat for assistance in preparing for Seychelles’ Universal Periodic Review, held the same day, and for funding that enabled participation from the capital.
The director-general stressed the importance of focusing on sustainable development beyond 2030. Minister Faure agreed, affirming that implementation and monitoring of sustainable development goals remain a national priority. He reiterated Seychelles’ strong support for multilateralism, emphasizing that adherence to international rules ensures small states like Seychelles have a fair platform to present their positions.
Minister Faure concluded by assuring the director-general of Seychelles’ continued commitment to the UN and active participation in relevant forums. He was accompanied at both meetings by Ambassador Cillia Mangroo.
The meetings represent standard diplomatic engagement for a small state maintaining international presence, neither breakthrough nor disappointment, simply the necessary work of keeping lines open and commitments visible.
