VICTORIA, Seychelles, Aug. 31 (XOL Africa) — Seychelles and Norway are seeking to broaden bilateral cooperation, with maritime security, sustainable fisheries and climate finance among the areas highlighted during talks between senior diplomats.
Norway’s ambassador-designate to Seychelles, Siv Cathrine Moe, met Ian Madeleine, principal secretary at Seychelles’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, on Monday ahead of presenting her credentials.
Maritime security was a central focus, reflecting the two countries’ shared interests as coastal states. The officials discussed continued cooperation against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, piracy and illicit drug trafficking.
The two sides also identified scope for greater exchanges of expertise in sustainable fisheries and the development of the blue economy, areas that are strategically important to Seychelles’ economy and maritime interests.
Beyond maritime affairs, the discussions covered potential cooperation in mental health, renewable energy, disaster-risk management and tourism.
Seychelles and Norway also discussed improving air links between the two countries through a potential Bilateral Air Services Agreement, which officials said could strengthen connectivity and facilitate broader exchanges.
Climate finance was another significant issue. Madeleine highlighted the difficulties faced by Small Island Developing States in securing climate funding that is both adequate and predictable, arguing that financing constraints can limit their ability to respond effectively to climate-related risks.
Seychelles welcomed Norway’s support for the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index, an initiative intended to give greater weight to the economic and environmental vulnerabilities of small island states when assessing their access to development finance.
The meeting comes as Seychelles seeks stronger international partnerships to address climate vulnerability while expanding its blue-economy and renewable-energy sectors.
Madeleine wished Moe success in her new assignment as she prepares to formally take up her diplomatic duties in Seychelles.
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