Press Release: The Office of the President of the Republic of Seychelles
President James Michel received, on Thursday 25 April 2013, Admiral Jacques Launay, head of the EU civilian mission EUCAP Nestor, and Rear Admiral Eric Dupont, Deputy Commander Operations of force EUNAVFOR-Atalanta for talks on maritime security.
The two senior European officers were accompanied by the Ambassador of France, Geneviève Iancu, and the British High Commissioner, Lindsay Skoll.
At the heart of the talks, the efforts of the European Union, both the civil and military, to enhance maritime security and meet the challenges of piracy and instability in Somalia.
The Chairman thanked the European Union for the considerable efforts it continues to provide in these areas and wanted to see it continue its efforts to strengthen the capacity of countries in the region.
“The fight against piracy, said President Michel has recorded many successes through the combined efforts of all partners. The attacks are less numerous. But this should not start our vigilance. We must not lower our guard because hackers can resurface at any time and disrupt maritime traffic in Seychelles waters. Your presence is essential. We appreciate the initiative taken by EUCAP Nestor and Atalanta to conduct a joint training exercise this week with our Coast Guard.”
The European partners have, for their part, welcomed the role of vanguard played by Seychelles in the fight against piracy and the regional partnership.
“The Seychelles is one of the cornerstones of our regional presence…. the action of Seychelles is paramount and it is an indicator of what to do and what we can do in the area, since the fight against piracy has taken a form determined at the European Union,” said Admiral Launay.
Also present at the meeting;
On the European side:
Captain Jean-Fran√ßois QUERAT, Commander of the warship “Le Tonnerre”
Defence Attaché, Commander Gerault
On the Seychelles side:
The Minister for Home Affairs and Transport, The Honourable Joel Morgan
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean Paul Adam,
The Diplomatic Advisor to the President, Ambassador Callixte d’Offay
The Technical Adviser, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Philippe Michaud
Via: http://www.oceanuslive.org/
