Seychelles' President Wavel Ramkalawan received the President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Friday, who is currently visiting Seychelles.

This is the first time that the UAE President made an official call on Ramkalawan at State House since assuming office.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was elected on Saturday, May 14th by the members of the Federal Supreme Council of the UAE.

According to a press statement from State House, the two heads of state discussed matters of cooperation between the two countries.

“On behalf of Seychelles, I am honoured to receive you here at State House. Today we further affirm our commitment to cement the existing ties of friendship between our two friendly nations. With the shared importance that both our countries place on environment conservation and renewable sources of energy, we look forward to exploring new ways to collaborate for the benefit of both our peoples” said Ramkalawan.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan reciprocated the good wishes and friendly ties between Seychelles and the UAE and expressed his wish that the existing diplomatic relations continue to grow through areas of mutual interest.

President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan signed a guest book before leaving State House. (Rassin Vannier, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

Seychelles and the UAE have good relations and the Middle Eastern country is providing financial assistance to the island state for several projects.

The UAE is currently financing the construction of a state-of-art hospital on La Digue with a donation of around $4 million. Construction of the facility on Seychelles' third most populated island started in March 2022.

Furthermore, in April this year, Seychelles signed an agreement with the UAE to modernise and transform its public service. Through the MOU, which will cover a three-year period, joint action will be taken to boost institutional capacities and government practices, while enhancing governance.

President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan signed a guest book before leaving State House. This visit is the first time a UAE President makes an official call at State House.

Updated at 8:25pm following new information from State House.