Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan Discusses New Collaborative Projects With UAE

Wavel Ramkalawan, President of Seychelles, highlighted the robust relationship between his country and the UAE, grounded in trust and mutual respect. This strong bond fosters cooperation across various sectors. He praised the leadership of the UAE for their role in enhancing these ties, particularly mentioning President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

President Ramkalawan acknowledged that Seychelles is making significant strides towards a complete shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Current projects include a wind energy initiative generating 7 megawatts and another producing over 1 megawatt. Future plans involve establishing a new wind energy project with five turbines, each generating about 5 megawatts.

The President noted that Seychelles consumes between 70 to 100 megawatts of electricity and aims to rely entirely on renewable sources by 2030. He emphasised that the ongoing collaboration with the UAE is crucial in achieving this goal. The support from the UAE includes floating solar panel projects and other initiatives under implementation.

Discussing economic support, President Ramkalawan stated that the UAE is Seychelles' leading investor. The Emirates, along with Etihad Airways, significantly boosts tourism, a vital part of Seychelles' national income. Investments in hospitality and hotels by the UAE are pivotal in creating jobs and attracting more visitors.

President Ramkalawan highlighted efforts to make Seychelles more appealing to investors by ensuring transparency and eliminating corruption as a barrier. "We are now regarded as a country where corruption is not a barrier," he said, encouraging investors to invest confidently in Seychelles.

Seychelles’ ranking at the top of the Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) underscores its commitment to governance principles and rule of law. This achievement further enhances its reputation as an attractive destination for investment.

The President invited investors to explore opportunities in Seychelles, assuring them of a transparent business environment where all transactions adhere to legal standards. He stressed that such conditions ensure rewarding returns on investments within mutually beneficial partnerships.

With inputs from WAM