(Seychelles News Agency) - The Serbian government on Tuesday recognized the Seychelles president’s contribution in strengthening bilateral relations between Serbia and Seychelles.

The newly accredited Serbian Ambassador to the island nation, Dragan Mraović, presented the ‘Order of the Republic of Serbia on a Sash’ to President James Michel, on behalf of the Serbian president, Tomislav Nikolić.

Michel described the award as testament of “the long-standing ties of friendship and cooperation between our two nations,” a statement issued by State House Tuesday said.

“I accept it with much pleasure and dedicate it to the people of Seychelles,” said Michel.

Seychelles, a 115-island archipelago in the western Indian Ocean, and Serbia established diplomatic ties nearly 40 years ago.

Mraović, who presented his credentials to President Michel Tuesday morning, is the third ambassador of his country to the island nation.

Ways for Seychelles and Serbia to consolidate ties in tourism, education, health as well as international peace and security were among issued discussed.

Speaking to journalists at State House, the Serbian diplomat also spoke about further developing economic and educational cooperation between the two countries during his mandate.

"Economic relations are a priority… I will do my best to increase relations. Business people should visit each country," he said. "Air Serbia joined the Etihad partnership… and we are looking at more possibilities to bring tourists to Seychelles, not only Serbian but from the whole of Europe."

Education is another sector in which Mraović has pledged his country’s support.

“Now my country is having four Seychellois students studying [at university]. We will have also one new scholarship to offer,” he said to journalists.

Mraović is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.