On Thursday 26th September 2024, the Secretary General of l’Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) Mr. Damien Cesselin paid a Courtesy Call on the Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Roger Mancienne. Hon. Mancienne was accompanied by the Clerk to the National Assembly Mrs. Tania Isaac, and Deputy Clerk Ms. Alexandria Faure. The Secretary General was accompanied by APF Interparliamentary Cooperation Advisor Mr. Alioune Dramé.
Discussions were centred on the National Assembly’s membership in the APF, particularly the challenges faced by the Assembly in terms of limited capacity. Hon. Mancienne noted that due to the limited number of Honourable Members, any significant absences would impact the necessary quorum for a Sitting to proceed. Financial constraints, particularly those necessitated by membership fees, have also created difficulties for the National Assembly to participate in the Forums hosted by the APF.
Despite these setbacks, Hon. Mancienne emphasised the willingness of the Assembly to contribute and represent Seychelles in this vital parliamentary network. Mr. Cesselin thanked the Speaker for his steadfast commitment and remarked that the National Assembly should continue striving to be represented at other parliamentary networks, such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union, of which the Assembly is closely affiliated.
The Clerk Mrs. Isaac noted that while communications between the National Assembly and the APF have not been as active as once before, there is clearly a need for the renewal of this affiliation. It is envisioned that such a renewal will see the promotion of the French language in Seychelles, the preservation of the Seychelles-French heritage, training opportunities, and parliamentary exchanges. Mr. Cesselin pledged the inclusion of the National Assembly of Seychelles in future opportunities hosted by the APF, including a comprehensive French language program currently being developed. Hon. Mancienne thanked the Secretary General for his commitment, describing this renewal as a significant milestone between the APF and the National Assembly.
Following the Courtesy Call, the Secretary General and Mr. Dramé met with the Clerk, Deputy Clerk, and the Desk Officer for the APF of the National Assembly Ms. Cosette Songoire, to further discuss the renewal of affiliations. Both delegations discussed areas of mutual interest, and the ways in which the partnership between the Assembly and the APF can be further strengthened in areas such as exchanges and capacity-building.
