On the morning of Monday 27th January 2025, the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Seychelles H.E. Mr. SAKUTA Makoto, accompanied by Counsellor Mr. ONO Tomoyuki, paid a Courtesy Call on the International Affairs Committee (IAC) of the National Assembly. The IAC was led by Chairperson Hon. Waven William, with the support of Vice-Chairperson Hon. Wavel Woodcock, Hon. Egbert Aglae, Hon. Phillip Arissol, and Hon. Kelly Samynadin. Assistance was provided by Assistant Committee Secretary Mr. Darel Atala, and Public Relations & Protocol Manager Ms. Angelique Hill.
Hon. William began the meeting by extending a warm welcome to H.E. Mr. Sakuta, following his recent accreditation in December 2024. H.E. Mr. Sakuta responded in kind, noting that it was a pleasure and honour to serve in his role as the first resident Ambassador of Japan, deepening the connection between the two nations. Discussions then began as Hon. William outlined the challenges and areas of potential development in Seychelles that could benefit from the support of Japan, such as the agricultural sector, sustainable energy and environmental protection, as well as fisheries and maritime security.
The Ambassador concurred, stating that one of his missions was the promotion of mutually beneficial development in sectors of common interest, particularly the protection of Seychelles’ vast ocean territory. Shared values such as the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy were noted to provide a strong basis for cooperation in terms of the promotion of the freedom of navigation, rule of law, and free trade.
Ambassador Sakuta clarified the position of Japan in terms of assistance to Seychelles, explaining that despite Seychelles existing as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), also referred to as Large Ocean States (LOS), its classification as a High-Income Country often acts as a barrier to financial support in various ways. While the Ambassador assured the Committee that the unique and often under-recognised challenges of the SIDS, such as impactful climactic events or disproportionate living costs, are always taken into account when cooperative efforts are underway, other factors must also be duly considered.
Discussions then moved onto the ways in which the existing relationship between Seychelles and Japan could be amplified, such as developing more forums for capacity-building, or the promotion of direct airlinks. It was noted that such initiatives have the potential to positively impact the tourism industry, technological and communications industry, as well as strengthening the people-to-people relations.
Concluding remarks centered on the development of the global economy and society at large, with joint reassurances of the commitment to fruitful bilateral cooperation. The meeting then came to a close with a souvenir photograph.
