China celebrates 63rd National Day

China celebrates 63rd National Day -


‘Seychelles takes pride in China’s successes’

Seychelles is proud to have China as a trustworthy and natural partner with which it shares mutual understanding and a strong partnership.

Minister Meriton addressing guests at the reception

Designated Minister Vincent Meriton said this on Saturday evening while addressing guests at a reception to mark China’s 63rd National Day celebrations.

“The bedrock of our strong partnership is China’s resolute commitment to assist us in diverse areas,” he added.

Attending the event held at the Chinese Embassy, St Louis, were Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Patrick Herminie, chief justice Fredrick Egonda-Ntende, ministers, chief of defence forces Brigadier Leopold Payet, leader of government business and leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, Marie-Antoinette Rose and David Pierre respectively.

Governor of the Central Bank Caroline Abel, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the National Assembly and Chinese nationals were among others present.

Mr Meriton said the day celebrates China’s determination to put people at the centre of development - an ideal that is shared by Seychelles.

He added that the Seychellois people partake in the Chinese national day celebrations because we take pride in China’s achievements.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the first Chinese presence in Seychelles and for that Mr Meriton thanked the Chinese community for contributing essential strands in the constitution of our unique Creole culture.

Mr Meriton said China continues to play an instrumental role in supporting the overall socio-economic development of Seychelles.

Mr Shi and Minister Meriton proposing a toast

Under the various bilateral economic and technical cooperation agreements, Seychelles have benefited from 40 infrastructural projects from China, 36 of which have been completed.

“It is the desire of President James Michel’s government to further deepen and broaden the existing partnership by venturing into new areas of cooperation, especially in the field of investment,” he added.

Mr Meriton also paid tribute to the Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Shi Zhongjun for his active contribution since assumption of office and for enhancing the relations between the two countries.

“The close ties of friendship and cooperation that exist between our two countries will act as the catalyst that will allow us to forge ahead towards achieving our common goal as partners,” he said.

Mr Meriton concluded by reaffirming Seychelles’ full commitment to the one-China policy and support for its peaceful reunification.

He then proposed a toast for the wellbeing of President Hu Jintao, for further progress of the relations between Seychelles and China, for peace and prosperity of the two peoples.

In his address, Mr Shi said the friendship between China and Seychelles has a history longer than what the diplomatic record shows.

He said the Chinese community in Seychelles working for the prosperity of the country, serves as a bridge to strengthen the relations between the two nations.

Mr Shi gave a brief overview of the measures that was announced during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

“It is my firm belief that China-Seychelles relations will benefit from the general picture of the China-Africa cooperation,” he added.

Mr Shi also proposed a toast to the prosperity and happiness of the two nations and to the close and lasting friendship between China and Seychelles.
‘Seychelles takes pride in China’s successes’

Seychelles is proud to have China as a trustworthy and natural partner with which it shares mutual understanding and a strong partnership.

Minister Meriton addressing guests at the reception

Designated Minister Vincent Meriton said this on Saturday evening while addressing guests at a reception to mark China’s 63rd National Day celebrations.

“The bedrock of our strong partnership is China’s resolute commitment to assist us in diverse areas,” he added.

Attending the event held at the Chinese Embassy, St Louis, were Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Patrick Herminie, chief justice Fredrick Egonda-Ntende, ministers, chief of defence forces Brigadier Leopold Payet, leader of government business and leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, Marie-Antoinette Rose and David Pierre respectively.

Governor of the Central Bank Caroline Abel, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the National Assembly and Chinese nationals were among others present.

Mr Meriton said the day celebrates China’s determination to put people at the centre of development - an ideal that is shared by Seychelles.

He added that the Seychellois people partake in the Chinese national day celebrations because we take pride in China’s achievements.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the first Chinese presence in Seychelles and for that Mr Meriton thanked the Chinese community for contributing essential strands in the constitution of our unique Creole culture.

Mr Meriton said China continues to play an instrumental role in supporting the overall socio-economic development of Seychelles.

Mr Shi and Minister Meriton proposing a toast

Under the various bilateral economic and technical cooperation agreements, Seychelles have benefited from 40 infrastructural projects from China, 36 of which have been completed.

“It is the desire of President James Michel’s government to further deepen and broaden the existing partnership by venturing into new areas of cooperation, especially in the field of investment,” he added.

Mr Meriton also paid tribute to the Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Shi Zhongjun for his active contribution since assumption of office and for enhancing the relations between the two countries.

“The close ties of friendship and cooperation that exist between our two countries will act as the catalyst that will allow us to forge ahead towards achieving our common goal as partners,” he said.

Mr Meriton concluded by reaffirming Seychelles’ full commitment to the one-China policy and support for its peaceful reunification.

He then proposed a toast for the wellbeing of President Hu Jintao, for further progress of the relations between Seychelles and China, for peace and prosperity of the two peoples.

In his address, Mr Shi said the friendship between China and Seychelles has a history longer than what the diplomatic record shows.

He said the Chinese community in Seychelles working for the prosperity of the country, serves as a bridge to strengthen the relations between the two nations.

Mr Shi gave a brief overview of the measures that was announced during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

“It is my firm belief that China-Seychelles relations will benefit from the general picture of the China-Africa cooperation,” he added.

Mr Shi also proposed a toast to the prosperity and happiness of the two nations and to the close and lasting friendship between China and Seychelles. - 01.10.2012
‘Seychelles takes pride in China’s successes’

Seychelles is proud to have China as a trustworthy and natural partner with which it shares mutual understanding and a strong partnership.

Minister Meriton addressing guests at the reception

Designated Minister Vincent Meriton said this on Saturday evening while addressing guests at a reception to mark China’s 63rd National Day celebrations.

“The bedrock of our strong partnership is China’s resolute commitment to assist us in diverse areas,” he added.

Attending the event held at the Chinese Embassy, St Louis, were Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Patrick Herminie, chief justice Fredrick Egonda-Ntende, ministers, chief of defence forces Brigadier Leopold Payet, leader of government business and leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, Marie-Antoinette Rose and David Pierre respectively.

Governor of the Central Bank Caroline Abel, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the National Assembly and Chinese nationals were among others present.

Mr Meriton said the day celebrates China’s determination to put people at the centre of development - an ideal that is shared by Seychelles.

He added that the Seychellois people partake in the Chinese national day celebrations because we take pride in China’s achievements.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the first Chinese presence in Seychelles and for that Mr Meriton thanked the Chinese community for contributing essential strands in the constitution of our unique Creole culture.

Mr Meriton said China continues to play an instrumental role in supporting the overall socio-economic development of Seychelles.

Mr Shi and Minister Meriton proposing a toast

Under the various bilateral economic and technical cooperation agreements, Seychelles have benefited from 40 infrastructural projects from China, 36 of which have been completed.

“It is the desire of President James Michel’s government to further deepen and broaden the existing partnership by venturing into new areas of cooperation, especially in the field of investment,” he added.

Mr Meriton also paid tribute to the Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Shi Zhongjun for his active contribution since assumption of office and for enhancing the relations between the two countries.

“The close ties of friendship and cooperation that exist between our two countries will act as the catalyst that will allow us to forge ahead towards achieving our common goal as partners,” he said.

Mr Meriton concluded by reaffirming Seychelles’ full commitment to the one-China policy and support for its peaceful reunification.

He then proposed a toast for the wellbeing of President Hu Jintao, for further progress of the relations between Seychelles and China, for peace and prosperity of the two peoples.

In his address, Mr Shi said the friendship between China and Seychelles has a history longer than what the diplomatic record shows.

He said the Chinese community in Seychelles working for the prosperity of the country, serves as a bridge to strengthen the relations between the two nations.

Mr Shi gave a brief overview of the measures that was announced during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

“It is my firm belief that China-Seychelles relations will benefit from the general picture of the China-Africa cooperation,” he added.

Mr Shi also proposed a toast to the prosperity and happiness of the two nations and to the close and lasting friendship between China and Seychelles.

http://www.nation.sc/index.php?art=28994

Seychelles signs historic visa waiver agreement with China - 07.05.2013

Seychelles has become only the second country in the world and the first in Africa to sign a visa waiver agreement with the People’s Republic of China after years of diplomatic talks.

Chinese vice-minister for Foreign Affairs Xie Hangsheng is welcomed at State House by President James Michel


This was revealed yesterday when Chinese vice-minister for Foreign Affairs Xie Hangsheng paid a courtesy visit to State House yesterday, calling on President James Michel, Vice-President Danny Faure and Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Paul Adam.

President Michel expressed his gratitude to the People's Republic of China for the signing of the agreement which he said is a “milestone in relations between Seychelles and China' and will develop their people-to-people relations”.

"We value the special relationship that exists between China and Seychelles...China has helped us immensely in our development and is continuing to support us in various fields... We both believe in peace and in fairness and we support each other's development...

“The mutual visa waiver agreement will further develop our relations and will become a showcase to the world, of how two countries with a common vision can achieve greater levels of confidence and cooperation," said Mr Michel.

Vice-Minister Xie Hangsheng said he was deeply impressed by the strategic vision of Seychelles as well as its natural beauty, and that the new agreement would help further development of economic, cultural, and educational ties between to the two countries.

“China and Seychelles relationship has now entered into a new stage... Chinese tourists will continue coming to Seychelles and more Seychellois will now be going to China. You can realise the huge effect that this agreement will have, especially for our bilateral cooperation by adding further momentum to people-to-people exchange, more investment and cultural exchanges,” said Mr Hangsheng.

He said his visit to Seychelles has confirmed the excellent relations that exist between the two countries which he hopes will further develop based on sincerity and friendship that already exist.
Mr Adam said: “We are very pleased to have had this visit from the vice-minister from China.”

“This agreement demonstrates the strength of the relationship between Seychelles and China. We are very pleased that after long years of negotiations we have managed to reach this point.”
The reciprocal agreement – which still needs to be legally processed through the Chinese People’s parliament – will be officially announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when it comes into effect. Visa waiver agreements are typically signed between two countries to enhance economic, cultural and humanitarian ties, and this one comes at an opportune time as Seychelles looks to Asia for more trade, investment and tourism opportunities.

Although the need to purchase visas for travel to China will soon be a thing of the past, normal consular requirements will still apply, such as restrictions on length of stay, which is set at 30 days. When travelling to China, a Seychellois national should present a passport valid for at least six months, proof of financial means to sustain the visit (credit cards, traveler’s checks or bank statements), a round-trip travel itinerary and a hotel reservation or other evidence of accommodation.

“I think the fact that we are one of only two countries to have this kind of agreement, and the only country in Africa, shows us that China holds us in very high esteem, and it’s reciprocal – we also have very great respect and mutual understanding for China.”

Mr Adam noted that Seychelles’ relations with China would continue to grow and evolve with the passage of time, noting that the cooperation originally given to the country by China on the independence of Seychelles in 1976 has widened in scope with changes to the global economic and political landscape.

He said his ministry also used the Chinese envoy’s visit to discuss a number of ongoing issues of bilateral importance, which include nearly-completed Chinese-funded projects such as the new Supreme Court, the Les Mamelles housing project and the Anse Royale hospital. He also said he is looking forward to see the commencement of some new social projects in partnership with the Chinese government, particularly within the housing sector.

He said he believes some huge opportunities exist in the development of trade and investment between the two countries, most particularly, he noted, in renewable energy.
“Seychelles has made a very clear political commitment to go very heavily into renewable energy as a source for our own energy, and China is the number one country in the world in terms of production of renewable energy technology,” he said.

“So there is an opportunity for Chinese investors in the renewable energy sector.”

The minister said opportunities for partnership also exist within the “blue economy”, which he explained is not only concerned with fisheries, but that Seychelles is also seeking China’s technical expertise in marine research for resource exploration.

Also present were the secretary general of the executive office of the President, Lise Bastienne and Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Shi Zhonjun.
http://www.nation.sc/index.php?art=31407

Eight students receive travel documents to study in China

27-August-2015


Eight Seychellois professionals will be leaving the country on September 1 to pursue their studies at different universities in China.

The students who form part of a group of 10 who have received Chinese government scholarships this year (two others have already left the country) will be studying psychology, public administration, accounting, computer science and technology, fine art, diplomacy and international relations.

Nine of them will be studying for a Bachelor’s degree while one will be studying for a Master’s.

The Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Yin Lixian presented the students with their travel documents yesterday in a short ceremony at the head office of the Agency for National Human Resource Development (ANHRD) which was attended by the students’ parents and other guests.

Addressing the students and everyone present ambassador Yin commended the long history of deep friendship that Seychelles and China enjoy and highlighted the vast exchanges in various fields noting that education is one of them.

“Up until this year China has provided about 130 scholarships to Seychelles and I am satisfied to see that many of the students who studied in China have come back and are playing great roles in various fields in the development of Seychelles,” Ambassador Yin said.

She urged the students to make full use of the next few years of their studies.

“Learn, meet more people and experience the Chinese culture,” she told the students, reminding them to put to good use the knowledge and expertise they will acquire.

“But I also hope that while you concentrate on your studies please turn your eyes to the relations between China and Seychelles and act as ambassadors of China-Seychelles friendship,” Ambassador Yin told the students.

The ANHRD’s chief executive Roseline Houareau echoed Ambassador Yin’s words when she addressed the students.

“It is through hard work and dedication that you are the recipients of the Chinese government’s scholarships so I urge you to seize this great opportunity that has been given to you. Pursue your studies most diligently so as to make not only yourselves but your families and the government of Seychelles proud,” Ms Houareau stressed.

On behalf of her colleagues Nathanielle Morel thanked Ambassador Yin and the Chinese government for such generosity.

She also thanked the government of Seychelles and the ANHRD as well as their parents for their support and encouragement.

The eight students are Annabelle Port-Louis, Annif Benstrong, Nathanielle Morel, Graem Pool, David Bonnelame, Cyril Maimee, Mickaela Ernesta and Emma Ah-Shung. Liu Chang and Juliette Zelime have already left.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=246579

Cultural troupe offers charm of Chinese culture

24-September-2015
It was a real entertaining as well as relaxing taste of Chinese culture at the University of Seychelles auditorium at Anse Royale on Friday afternoon, as the Dalian University Art Troupe offered a glittering performance.
Present were the Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Her Excellency Yin Lixian, University of Seychelles’ (UniSey) vice-chancellor Dennis Hardy, lecturers, students, members of the local Chinese community and other art lovers.
The troupe from the beautiful coastal city of northeastern China which had arrived earlier the same morning had stopped in Seychelles as part of a tour of Africa and the Indian Ocean. Invited by the University of Seychelles, their ‘Charm of China’ show served as promotion for the Chinese language course which the university will be offering as from next year.
During one and a half hours which seemed to quickly elapse in only 10 minutes, the audience was gracefully carried through China’s 5,000-year history, on clouds of folk and also pop songs, music and dance which have evolved over the years.
The soft sounds were brought by the guitar as well as traditional Chinese violins, banjos and flutes, and a round tambourine-looking percussion instrument which also strangely resembles our own moutya drum. The master of ceremony confirmed that just as the moutya drum, it is of Arabic origin.
And when the troupe performed Jean Ally’s ‘Proud to be a Seychellois’ and was joined on stage by members of the National Choir, it sounded like the Seychellois traditions had been exported to China for a beautiful blend of the two cultures.
Talking to the attentive audience, ambassador Yin Lixian reminded of the long and deep existing friendship between the peoples of China and Seychelles. She remarked that culture is one of the most important elements of the relations between the two countries. She gave as examples the Seychelles-China Day and Chinese involvement in the Carnaval International de Victoria. As a result of the cultural exchanges she said, more Seychellois are becoming interested in Chinese art and culture.
Professor Hardy has on his side expressed hope that the cooperation between the two universities, of which the basis was laid during the visit of a UniSey delegation to China two years ago, will continue.
The Dalian University Arts Troupe which started as a choir in 1998 and consists of teachers as well as students, also regroups a traditional orchestra and a symphony, all incorporated into a conservatory of music and dance. Since its creation, other than its involvement in various Chinese festivals, it has performed in more than 20 countries worldwide.
The following are some of the photos taken by our photographer Louis Toussaint during the show.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=246880

Victoria and GuangzVictoria and Guangzhou to deepen ties

27-November-2015

Ties between Victoria and the Chinese city of Guangzhou look set to be strengthened.

This follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two cities.

This is the third MoU signed between Victoria and a city in China. Previous MoUs on strengthening cooperation have been signed with Haikou and Shanghai.

“Together Victoria and Guangzhou will strive to foster educational exchanges, promote cultural understanding and stimulate economic growth through our new Sister-City relationship. We look forward to this new chapter in the exceptional bilateral relations which China and Seychelles share as this agreement speaks of the unique historical ties which unite Seychelles with the Guangdong province,” said the Mayor of Victoria, Jacqueline Moustache-Belle, after she had signed the MoU.

The MOU was signed in Guangzhou, on November 12 between Mrs Moustache-Belle and Mr. Chen Jianhua, Mayor of Guangzhou Municipality, People's Republic of China.

“More than 150 years ago, the first Chinese migrants, originating from Guangdong province, settled in Seychelles and have since been playing a key role in defining the very fabric of our society,” noted Mrs Moustache-Belle.

The MoU on strengthening cooperation between Victoria and Guangzhou will enable both cities to identify activities that can generate new initiatives to further nurture the economic, social and cultural ties which Seychelles and China share. hou to deepen ties

27-November-2015

Ties between Victoria and the Chinese city of Guangzhou look set to be strengthened.

This follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two cities.

This is the third MoU signed between Victoria and a city in China. Previous MoUs on strengthening cooperation have been signed with Haikou and Shanghai.

“Together Victoria and Guangzhou will strive to foster educational exchanges, promote cultural understanding and stimulate economic growth through our new Sister-City relationship. We look forward to this new chapter in the exceptional bilateral relations which China and Seychelles share as this agreement speaks of the unique historical ties which unite Seychelles with the Guangdong province,” said the Mayor of Victoria, Jacqueline Moustache-Belle, after she had signed the MoU.

The MOU was signed in Guangzhou, on November 12 between Mrs Moustache-Belle and Mr. Chen Jianhua, Mayor of Guangzhou Municipality, People's Republic of China.

“More than 150 years ago, the first Chinese migrants, originating from Guangdong province, settled in Seychelles and have since been playing a key role in defining the very fabric of our society,” noted Mrs Moustache-Belle.

The MoU on strengthening cooperation between Victoria and Guangzhou will enable both cities to identify activities that can generate new initiatives to further nurture the economic, social and cultural ties which Seychelles and China share.

Victoria and GuangzVictoria and Guangzhou to deepen tie

China and Seychelles reaffirm cultural ties


The high level of cooperation in the field of tourism and culture and the friendly ties that China and Seychelles already share and enjoy will be further strengthened now that the two countries... Read More

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=248283

Seychelles China Day launched

The third Seychelles China Day is on the way.
The event, which marks our Chinese origins and celebrates the ties of friendship between the two countries, was launched yesterday evening by the Minister for Tourism and Culture Alain St Ange, during a ceremony at the Eden Bleu Hotel.
The ceremony was attended by former President James Mancham, Designated Minister Vincent Meriton, other ministers, Chinese chargé d’affaires Zhang Xiangyang and other members of the diplomatic corps, members of the Chinese community as well as other local guests.


http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=248320

Seychelles China Day : Shanxi Huajin Dance Troupe thrills local crowd


As part of the Seychelles China Day, the Shanxi Huajin Dance Troupe thrilled the crowd with some spectacular performances at the International Conference Centre (ICCS) on Friday evening.
http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=248346

Seychelles-China Day to be 41st feast organised by mainland China

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=248342

Five generations of Chinese celebrate the New Year

Victoria, Seychelles | February 7, 2016,

In the early 1920s a boy of 13 travelled by boat from the Guangdong province, China, to the Seychelles archipelago in search of a better life. Now nearly a century years later, five generations of the Kim Koon family will soon celebrate another Chinese New Year here.

Pikkim Kim Koon, 80, known in Seychelles as Mrs. Tai Tai, is one of the oldest family members. She is the daughter-in-law of Joseph Kim Koon, the founder of the Kim Koon family business.

Pikkim told SNA in an interview that her Cantonese father-in-law came to Seychelles in search of a better future in a time when life was difficult in China. Joseph Kimkoon passed away at the age of 94 in 2002

http://www.seychelles-enews.com/2016/February%201,%202016/soc1_five_generations_chinese.html

China and Seychelles celebrate 40 years of diplomatic ties

China and Seychelles have just celebrated 40 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between them.
To mark the occasion, a reception was organised on June 29 by the embassy of Seychelles in Beijing with the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC).
China was one of the first countries to formally establish diplomatic ties with Seychelles following independence.
In fact, the occasion also coincided with the 40th anniversary of Seychelles’ Independence from Great Britain.
As guests of honour from the Chinese and Seychelles sides at the reception were Zhou Xiaochuan, vice-chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and Ambassador Maurice Loustau-Lalanne, secretary of state in the Seychelles Ministry of Foreign Affairs, respectively.
Mr Zhou is also the governor of the People’s Bank of China (Central Bank of China).
When addressing the 200 guests including Chinese government officials, representatives of the diplomatic community in Beijing, Seychellois students in Beijing and various business representatives, Vivianne Fock Tave, Seychelles’ ambassador based in Beijing, highlighted that when Seychelles took the brave step in embracing independence 40 years ago, it was to be the dawn of a new era, full of hope and the enthusiasm of a people to build a prosperous and unified nation for themselves.
“National Day celebration is a time for all of us, as a nation, to unite and to celebrate everything that makes us what we are. It is a time to renew our personal vows to our country, to double our contributions for its progress and prosperity. It is also a period for reflection, a time of thanksgiving and a time of hope. We have been blessed in more ways than one in our small corner of the world and we should all be thankful for that. So let us keep our beloved Seychelles blessed for our future generations,” remarked the Seychelles ambassador.
Ambassador Fock Tave also reiterated the sincere appreciation of the government and the people of Seychelles for all the valuable support and help that China has provided to the development of Seychelles.
“The socio-economic development of Seychelles would not have been possible without the assistance of our key international partners and China’s role, as a bilateral partner, has been of paramount importance for our development as a nation. China is Seychelles’ true partner and steadfast friend and this feeling is strongly and warmly reciprocated by Seychelles and its people,” added Ambassador Fock Tave.
Lin Yi, the vice-president of the CPAFFC, pointed out that as a real friend of Seychelles, China has always stood by Seychelles in its endeavour to develop the country’s economy and improve the livelihood of the Seychellois people.
“In the past 40 years, China and Seychelles, through their joint efforts, have maintained a healthy and fast-growing relationship, which could be regarded as a model for all countries, big or small,” remarked Ms Lin.
She added that the presence of Ambassador Maurice Loustau-Lalanne to the celebration demonstrates the great attention and importance that the Seychelles government pays to the bilateral relations of the two countries.
The CPAFFC is a national people’s organisation of China engaged in people-to people diplomacy. The aims of the association are to enhance people’s friendship and further international cooperation, among others.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=250077

Seychelles signs new economic and technical accord with China

03-August-2016
Seychelles has signed a new agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation with China under which Seychelles will benefit from a 100 million RMB grant (approximately US $15 million).
The signing of the agreement took place on July 29, 2016 in Beijing on the margins of the Coordinators Meeting on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
Ambassador Vivianne Fock Tave, Seychelles ambassador to China, and Qian Keming, the Chinese Vice-Minister of Commerce, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective government.
The grant will be used to fund key infrastructure projects such as the construction of a new building (including purchase of modern equipment) for the Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) and other priority projects earmarked by the government.
The provision of this grant is in accordance with the three-year action plan agreed by China and African countries at the FOCAC Summit, held in early December in Johannesburg last year, during which China pledged US $60 billion in aid for the infrastructural and human capacities development of African countries over a period of three years.
Over the past 40 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, China has been a very important bilateral partner for the socio-economic development of Seychelles and has financed numerous social projects such as housing estates, schools, the National Assembly, Palais de Justice, among others.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=250457

China supports police database management system project

05-August-2016

The ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Seychelles, Yin Lixian, yesterday donated a set of computers and laserjet printers to the Seychelles police department in Victoria.
It forms part of the China’s contribution to the department’s planned database management system project.
The equipment, consisting of 20 computers and 12 laserjet printers of the Lenovo brand, were handed over to the Seychelles Commissioner of Police, Reginald Elizabeth in the presence of Charles Bastienne, Minister for Home Affairs, senior officials and management members of the Seychelles police and officials from the Chinese embassy in Seychelles.
This was later followed by the signing of the handing over documents between ambassador Lixian and Minister Bastienne.
The Ministry of Home Affairs is to introduce a new database management system for the police department which will link all stations, including the Criminal Investigation Department, to enable information sharing across the country.
In his address of appreciation, Commissioner Elizabeth referred to a previous meeting with the media where he expressed the need for the police department to embrace technology for professionalism and for better service delivery to the community.
“This donation of twenty new computer sets and twelve new printers from one of our generous partners has come at a very opportune time indeed and will no doubt play a significant role in making the anticipated fully-fledged network system to be commissioned soon, a reality,” said the police commissioner, adding the donation is a big step forward in that direction.
The digital case file management system, he said, will enable all data collected in regards to crime and criminal activities to be more effectively stored and to be accessed at any given time in one location.
“Therefore this donation is a big step forward towards our objectives,” he added. He also expressed the police force’s gratefulness and appreciation towards the Chinese government for such a gesture.
Remarking that 2016 marks 40 years since China and Seychelles established diplomatic relations which has witnessed smooth development in the friendly China-Seychelles relations with countless fruitful results in mutually beneficial cooperation, Ambassador Yin said although China and Seychelles are quite different, the two countries have many things in common. Among them the value of people-centered development.
“With the new database management system installed, the policemen will be better placed to serve the communities and citizens, which reflects the concept of people-centered development,” the ambassador said.
It honoured her greatly, she said, to be part of this meaningful process by donating these IT equipment to facilitate the new system and hope China’s contribution will support the ministry in its mission and ambition.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=250501

Chinese Pagoda project held up

20-August-2016


The re-construction of the Chinese Pagoda in Victoria has come to a halt and this prompted the Minister for Tourism and Culture Alain St Ange to meet representatives of the local Chinese community.
In the absence of Charlie Ng, the chairman of the Chinese Association, it was Rose-Mary Lee-Bluemner, the secretary of the association and Elizabeth Lee Kim Koon who met Minister St Ange and Anne Lafortune, the principal secretary for tourism at the ministry's ESPACE offices in Victoria.
Minister St Ange said as culture minister he wanted to be updated on the progress on the construction of the Chinese Pagoda.
“We hear that work on the Pagoda has stopped and wanted to be updated because the reconstruction of that Pagoda is crucial for the unity and harmony within the local Chinese community,” said Minister St Ange.
In discussions that followed, the minister was informed of financial challenges by the association which has resulted in the delay in the re-construction works.
Minister St Ange and a high level delegation from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture will next week visit the construction site together with members of the Chinese Association, their architects and the Pagoda contractors in order to be fully updated on the project.
“We know that this situation cannot stay the way it is. It is a letdown for the Chinese community of Seychelles so we need to sit and discuss how to break the stalemate that exists to help the association get the remaining funds to complete their project in Victoria,” said Minister St Ange.
The Chinese Pagoda of Victoria is a vital project for the local Chinese community. It will be their place of worship as well as their meeting and socialising venue.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=250689

Eight young Seychellois receive travel documents to study in China

31-August-2016

Eight young Seychellois who will be pursuing three to five years of study at Masters and Undergraduate levels in various fields, yesterday received their travel documents.
The ceremony took place at the office of the Agency for National Resource Development (ANHRD) at Le Chantier Mall.
They are among the ten Seychellois who are the recipients of the Chinese government scholarships for the year 2016.
According to ANHRD there are currently 39 students studying in China and with yesterday’s scholarship recipients, the total number will be 49. The students have been admitted in universities of their choice.
The documents were presented by the ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Seychelles, Yin Lixian, in the presence of Terence Françoise, chief executive of ANHRD and parents of awardees.
The students will be following Bachelor’s degrees in Graphic Design, Political Science and Public Administration, Fine Arts, Computer Science and Technology, Food Science and Technology, Special Education and Medicine and Civil Engineering and Masters in Communications, which to ANHRD are priority areas for the country.
Congratulating the students on their successful admission and ANHRD for easing the Chinese government scholarship programme, Ambassador Yin cited a quote “knowledge can change fate’, a well known notion she said which has stimulated numerous children in China to learn and to enrich their lives.
“Therefore, the Chinese government endeavours to help the students from friendly countries like Seychelles to acquire the secret power of knowledge. We would be most happy if the scholarship programme could provide you with an opportunity to study in a university, where you can learn how to better improve yourself, live a more meaningful life and better serve your motherland,” she said.
She told the awardees they could find themselves in a good position to learn the Chinese culture which, she said, is diverse and unique yet harmoniously blended. When they come back they may find themselves a master of Chinese culture, acting as cultural bridge linking the two cultures and nations.
She also urged them to make space from their busy schedule to enjoy China.
“In the end you may find that several years in China can be too short,” remarked the ambassador.
Mr Francois informed ambassador Yin that the scholarships awarded by the Chinese government have provided the citizens of Seychelles the chance to make a difference not only in their personal lives, but also that of their relatives as well as the development of the country as a whole.
“This is also in line with the objectives of the ANHRD which is to advise and assist in the field of human resource development in order to improve national skills and create a framework for the development of human capital through the development of organisations and the individual,” he said while thanking the Chinese government for its active role in the development of the country’s human resources.
He urged the awardees to excel in their studies and parents to help their children at all times.
One of the awardees, James Finesse, who will be undertaking a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Technology, had words of gratitude to the Chinese government for giving him and his colleagues this opportunity.
He also described the studies as a chance to develop themselves and then come back to contribute to their country’s development.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=250850

Seychelles-China cooperation - New group of Chinese doctors arrive this week

19-September-2016


A new group of six Chinese doctors are expected in Seychelles this week to work at the Seychelles Hospital for a period of one year.
They will replace the current group of Chinese medical doctors who have worked at the Seychelles Hospital since July 2014.
The new group of the Chinese doctors are specialised in acupuncture, orthopaedics, general surgery, radio-diagnosis, radiography and cardiology.
Health Minister Mitcy Larue and Chinese ambassador Yin Lixian last week renewed the protocol agreement between Seychelles and China for the Chinese doctors to work at the Seychelles Hospital.
This protocol agreement provides to enhance friendly relations and co-operation in medical and health services between Seychelles and China.
During their one-year working period at the Seychelles Hospital, the new group of Chinese doctors will provide medical services and also exchange expertise and experience with their Seychellois counterparts.
The departing group of six Chinese doctors leave Seychelles at the end of this month, a few days after the new group arrives and which will enable them to hand over to each other.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=251084

Visite d’adieu de L’ambassadrice de Chine au président Michel :

21-September-2016
« L’Ambassadrice part mais l’ambassade reste »


Lors de sa visite d’adieu à State House, l’Ambassadrice Yin a offert au Président Michel un vase en porcelaine. En échange, le Président Michel lui a offert un coco-de-mer

L’Ambassadrice sortante de la République Populaire de Chine son excellence Yin Lixian a rendu une visite d’adieu au Président James Michel à State House hier matin.
Elle était accompagnée du Conseiller à l’ambassade de Chine aux Seychelles, M. Zhang Xiangang.
La diplomate chinoise a été reçue par le Chef de l’Etat seychellois en présence du Ministre des Affaires étrangères et des Transports, M. Joël Morgan, et le Conseiller diplomatique à la Présidence, l’Ambassadeur Callixte d’Offay.
Le Président Michel a remercié l’Ambassadrice Yin pour son travail remarquable dans le développement des excellentes relations entre les Seychelles and La Chine, et pour le soutien accru de la Chine dans la construction des Seychelles dans plusieurs domaines.
« Au nom du gouvernement et du peuple seychellois, je vous remercie pour votre soutien et votre contribution dans l’intensification des relations sino-seychelloises. Pendant ces dernières années nous avons établi une relation très fructueuse. La Chine en tant qu’ami fidèle n’a cessé d’aider notre nation et de bâtir un modèle de développement qui place l’homme au centre de toutes les activités économiques et sociales. J’espère que nous allons continuer à œuvrer ensemble pour renforcer davantage notre partenariat », a dit le Président Michel à l’occasion de son entretien avec la diplomate chinoise.
Le Président Michel et l’Ambassadrice Yin ont échangé des cadeaux lors de la rencontre.
Ainsi, le Président Michel a offert à Mme Yin un coco-de-mer, la plus grosse noix au monde. Pour sa part, Mme Yin a offert au Président Michel un vase en porcelaine.
Quoique son départ puisse paraître prématuré après seulement deux années en poste à Victoria, l’Ambassadrice Yin a voulu rassurer que les bonnes relations entre son pays et les Seychelles vont continuer.
« L’Ambassadrice part mais l’ambassade reste ». C’est en ces termes qu’elle a illustré ses propos, tout en continuant que son successeur va continuer dans la même lignée qu’elle a quittée.
L’Ambassadrice sortante a expliqué avoir été rappelée à Pékin pour en effet prendre une autre fonction à l’étranger.
« C’est la vie des diplomates. Nous sommes comme des soldats. Quand l’ordre vient, nous devons partir pour un nouveau poste », a-t-elle voulu expliquer.
Faisant le bilan de son mandat, elle a dit que même si les deux ans ont été courts, elles étaient riches en événements. Elle s’est dite privilégiée pour avoir assisté à deux grands d’entre eux : les 40 ans d’indépendance des Seychelles et dans la foulée, 40 ans de relations diplomatiques avec son pays dans les secteurs politique, économique et social.
« Nous avons concrétisé notre relation et nous avons réalisé beaucoup de projets », a-t-elle dit. Les plus récents étant la reconstruction du quartier de Corgat Estate, la modernisation de la radio et télévision nationale la SBC, l’arrivée d’une nouvelle équipe médicale chinoise qu’elle dit être présente « pour le bien-être du peuple seychellois » et la mise en place par Air Seychelles de la ligne direct Pointe Larue – Pékin.
L’Ambassadrice Yin a souligné que ce dernier développement a facilité les échanges culturels entre les deux peuples et a permis à beaucoup de Chinois de venir passer leurs vacances aux Seychelles.
Sur un plan plus large, elle a voulu remercier les Seychelles pour avoir été un partenaire fiable de la Chine au sein du concert international.
« Le peuple chinois est très reconnaissant au peuple seychellois, car les Seychelles sont une source de confiance et de solidarité au niveau international », a-t-elle dit.
Pour revenir au plan national, elle a dit constaté que les Seychelles ont fait de grand progrès et que le peuple seychellois a remporté de grands succès dans de nombreux domaines.
« Les Seychelles sont synonymes de stabilité, de paix et de beauté », a-t-elle conclu.
Avant une ultime séance photos sur les marches du palais présidentiel, Mme Yin a également rendu une dernière visite au vice-président Danny Faure.
« Mon Kontan Sesel », a-t-elle sorti en guise de mot d’adieu, tout en exprimant ses vœux de bonheur et de prospérité au peuple seychellois.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=251114

Victoria and Chinese city of Wuhan sign twinning accord

19-October-2016


The city of Wuhan in China and Seychelles’ capital Victoria have signed an agreement aimed at building city-to-city friendship and promoting exchange and cooperation.
The agreement, the sixth to be signed with a municipality in China, was signed on Monday by the then Mayor of Victoria Jacqueline Moustache-Belle and the Mayor of Wuhan Municipal People’s Government, Wan Yong.
The signing ceremony took place at the Mayor of Victoria’s office on State House Avenue, Victoria.
There was also an exchange of gifts from both sides.
The Chinese delegation, who has been in the country since last Sunday, also paid a courtesy call on Jean-Paul Adam, Minister for Finance, Trade and the Blue Economy.
Highlighting the content of the agreement, Mrs Moustache-Belle said Victoria already had such agreements with other cities of China and this is the sixth one.
She noted that all these agreements have worked very well.
Many of the exchanges, she said, consist of various aspects like the opportunity for students to go and study in China, craft works, trade, sports activities with the support of the two embassies and governments of both countries.
After giving a brief geographical description and highlighting some of the tourism attractions of Wuhan, which he said is located in central China with a population of 13 million and economic aggregate of US $170 billion and having great rivers, Mayor Wan Yong said Seychelles is the African country closest to China, not just in distance but also in terms of heart to heart relations with good friendship.
He mentioned three main sectors in which his city and Victoria can cooperate –
infrastructure construction, engineering and design; the Blue economy and tourism.
He said Wuhan is very strong in the area of construction, engineering and design and has a lot to offer.
As for the Blue economy development, he said Wuhan can become the distribution centre of the fishery products in China. Wuhan is the capital city of Hubei Province in central China, located at the juncture of Yangtze, the world's third-longest river. The city has a lot of fresh water resources and mountains which Mr Wan said are of great attraction to tourists.
Speaking about tourism he said that Seychelles is one of the best destinations to visit, and thus opportunities for exchanges.
The signing of the agreement was probably the last official function of Mrs Moustache-Belle as mayor of Victoria as only hours later she was announced as the chief of presidential protocol, following the appointment of new senior officials at State House by the country’s new President Danny Faure.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=251485

Seychelles gets own Guangzhou Garden

29-November-2016

Visitors and locals can now have a taste of the unique charm of Chinese culture in a Guangzhou garden located on a hill in the Western part of the Seychelles Botanical Garden.
The Guangzhou Garden was handed over to the National Botanical Garden Foundation of Seychelles yesterday during a short ceremony where the plaque of the garden was unveiled by the Minister for Environment, Energy and Climate Change (MEECC) Didier Dogley, executive director in the Office of the Mayor of Victoria Lydia Charlie, deputy secretary of Guangzhou Municipality Diao Ailin, and the Chinese chargé d’affaires Zhang Xiang Yang.
The relationship between the National Botanical Gardens and Guangzhou city started in October 2014 when the ex-Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Paul Adam and his delegation visited Guangzhou at the invitation of the mayor Chen Jianhua for the handing over of giant tortoises to Guangzhou zoo.
The minister and the mayor then agreed to build a Guangzhou garden in the National Botanical Gardens.
This project was made possible with the financial support from mayor Chen Jianhua and the support of China Shenyang Cooperation (Seychelles Ltd) and the Guangzhou Landscape Agriculture Company, under the guidance of the National Botanical Gardens

http://nation.sc/article.html?id=251986

La nouvelle ambassadrice de Chine accréditée

14-December-2016


La nouvelle ambassadrice de la République Populaire de Chine auprès de la République des Seychelles, son excellence Mme Yu Jinsong, a présenté ses lettres de créances au Président Danny Faure à State House, hier matin. Elle a aussi fait une visite de courtoisie au vice-président, Vincent Meriton.

Mme Jinsong remplace son prédécesseur Mme Yin Lixian, dont le mandat s’est terminé cette année même.

A l’issue de son entretien avec le chef de l’Etat Seychellois, Mme Jinsong a indiqué que les discussions se sont concentrées sur les longues années de relations diplomatiques et cordiales entre la Chine et les Seychelles.

« Nous avons discuté de la coopération entre nos deux pays. Cette année, c’est une grande année pour les Seychelles et aussi pour nos deux pays, car nous avons déjà célébré le 40ème anniversaire de l’indépendance des Seychelles et celui de l’établissement des relations diplomatiques entre la Chine et les Seychelles. Depuis 40 ans, nous avons obtenu une coopération très enrichissante », a déclaré son excellence, madame l’ambassadrice.

Concernant ces relations, Mme Jinsong a souligné que la Chine a apporté, au fur et à mesure de ces possibilités, un soutien actif et constant aux Seychelles pour son développement économique et social. Mais, elle a tenu à ajouter que, dans l’avenir, les deux pays ont encore beaucoup de choses à faire ensemble.

« Nous désirons élargir une coopération pragmatique, par exemple, dans les domaines du tourisme, de l’économie bleue, de la santé, de la formation des ressources humains et aussi dans le domaine de la défense », a dit son excellence.

Pendant son mandat, Mme Jinsong a clairement fait ressortir qu’elle restera fidèle à sa mission. Avec ses collègues de l’ambassade, ils feront tous les efforts nécessaires pour contribuer au développement des relations bilatérales et aussi pour approfondir l’amitié entre les deux peuples. Et à l’approche du nouvel An, Mme Jinsong a profité de cette occasion pour présenter ses meilleurs vœux de prospérité et de bonheur à la République des Seychelles ainsi qu’à son peuple.

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=252180

Fourth Seychelles-China Day - Xinjiang Troupe to perform in Seychelles

19-January-2017
Seychelles-China Day, which coincides with the Spring Festival marking the Chinese New year, is to strengthen the collaboration between Seychelles and China.
This year’s event will celebrate the origins and identity of the Seychellois people, witness the different cultures of China, along by promoting Chinese tradition in Seychelles.
Such cultural exchange is to celebrate the origins and identity of the Seychellois people, and share our culture, our tradition.
The highlight for this year is a performance by the Xinjiang Troupe which will be performing at the International Conference Centre Seychelles (ICCS) on January 22, 2017 for the local public at 3.30pm.
The show, which is being organised by the department of culture, Cinea, Chinese embassy and the Chinese community, will be free for the general public but since there is a limited number of 100 seats available, tickets can be obtained on a first come first served basis at Cinea’s office at the ICCS during work hours.
The acrobatic Xinjiang Troupe, from the Uyghur Autonomous Region in the northeast of the People's Republic of China, was created in 1961. After decades of development, the troupe has produced a great number of spectacular group acts that have won several gold, silver, and bronze awards in international circus festivals and national and regional competitions. The troupe has been commended by the Chinese Ministry of Culture for its excellence.
Seychelles-China Day started in 2014 and this year it will be held this weekend (January 21-22).

http://nation.sc/article.html?id=252595

Oil Demand at Risk as China Reins In Buyers That Bought Less
in Oil & Companies News 21/01/2017

http://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/oil-demand-at-risk-as-china-reins-in-buyers-that-bought-less/


China Puts Shanghai Oil Futures Contract Launch On Hold OilPrice.com
http://oilprice.com/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/China-Puts-Shanghai-Oil-Futures-Contract-Launch-On-Hold.html



President Xi's speech to Davos in full | World Economic Forum
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/01/full-text-of-xi-jinping-keynote-at-the-world-economic-forum

Davos 2017: Chinese president Xi warns against trade wars - Day 1 ...
https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2017/jan/17/davos-2017-wef-chinese-president-xi-trump-scaramucci-brexit-hsbc-live*

Comment -We would like to remind everybody what happened last year about this time - that SEYEU.COM portal was offline for three weeks - China alone lost $900 billion beside other Markets affected/impacted - the many in Davos who know what we are talking about and the important why including China Officials. Sir James Mancham knew of those issues. In spite of what the so call experts have written in Europe the other reality.

Fourth Seychelles-China Day - ‘Seychelles values its relations with China,” says minister

Seychelles values its relations with China and it plans to continue this relationship of collaboration and development for the betterment of the two countries’ nations and common good. This was... Read More

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=252638

Seychelles-China Day celebrations - Public enjoys Chinese food and goods at special bazaar
http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=252637

Chinese troupe puts on spectacular cultural show

24-January-2017
The free and inspiring spirit of the Xinjiang people were appreciated by the Chinese community as well as other members of the public on Sunday afternoon in a cultural show.

The show, held at the International Conference Centre of Seychelles (ICCS), comprised 13 vigorous music and cheerful dance performances by the Xinjiang song and dance troupe.

The show is as a result of the continuous effort of the Chinese embassy to ensure that there is an international Chinese troupe which graces the Seychelles-China day event every year.

Xinjiang is located in the northwest border of China with vast territory and rich products.

The troupe is known as the most outstanding arts troupe in Xinjiang and it has been invited to more than 90 countries and regions to demonstrate their breathtaking performances.

It is believed that the songs and dance of the Xinjiang troupe is more than just entertainment, they also tell the history of the people.

The cultural show was also the last activity held to mark this year’s Seychelles-China Day.

The accompanying photos show highlights of the show.
http://nation.sc/article.html?id=252649

Chinese New Year 2017 - Confucius certificate presentation marks Spring Festival celebrations

http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=252687

Chinese cultural troupe dazzles

27-January-2017
Members of the public were treated to a spectacular cultural show on Sunday by the Chinese troupe Xinjiang.

The event formed part of activities to mark this year’s Seychelles-China Day.

In our Arts & Culture page today we present some highlights of the show through the following photographs taken by Patrick Joubert.
http://www.nation.sc/article.html?id=252690