(Seychelles News Agency) - The new Italian ambassador to Seychelles, Mauro Massoni, presented his credentials to President James Michel at State House this morning, according to a press statement from the Office of the President in Victoria, capital of the archipelago.

The ambassador stressed Italy’s intention to work with the Seychelles government in the promotion of the Blue Economy concept, which includes the development of sustainable exploitation of marine resources, which the Seychelles is championing, as a small island developing state of 90,000 inhabitants.

“The relationship between Italy and the Republic of Seychelles are traditionally very good. We have collaborated in several sectors, such in the fight against piracy as well as in several United Nations programmes. Italy would like to collaborate with Seychelles in the development of the Blue Economy concept, knowing how deeply involved Seychelles is in this sector,” he said.

Ambassador Massoni is based in Nairobi, Kenya.