(Seychelles News Agency) - Seychelles and Turkey will focus on improving cooperation in trade and the economy, said the newly accredited Turkish ambassador to Seychelles on Tuesday.

Ahmet Cemil Miroğlu made this statement after presenting his credentials to President Danny Faure at State House, Victoria.

“I have a business delegation accompanying me and we are planning to meet with the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and the Investment Board. We will listen to our friends from the Seychelles’ side, to see what we can do work on it,” said Miroğlu.

Talking about the tourism industry, the new ambassador said that since both countries are popular tourist destinations, the Turkish government is “ready to share [its] experience and work together with Seychelles” in this sector.

Miroğlu presented his credentials to President Faure at State House on Tuesday. (Joena Meme) Photo License: CC-BY

Tourism is the main pillar of the economy of Seychelles – a 115 island archipelago in the western Indian Ocean. In October 2016, Turkish Airlines started operating thrice-weekly flights to the island nation.

“Because of the flight of Turkish Airlines, Seychelles is becoming a more important and beautiful touristic destination for Turkish tourists. I am sure that there will be an important bridge between our countries,” said Miroğlu.

Other areas discussed between the two diplomats at State House were cooperation in the field of combating drug trafficking and piracy. The ambassador added that his country is also ready to support Seychelles with infrastructure projects.

Seychelles and Turkey established diplomatic relations in 1995, a bilateral relationship that Miroğlu described as “promising with big potentials.” He told the press present that these potentials need to be developed.

The Turkish ambassador will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.