Seychelles President Herminie Visits Russia to Forge Stronger Ties
From 20 to 23 April 2026, Seychelles President Patrick Herminie was on a state visit to Russia. On 22 April 2026, President Patrick Herminie met with Russian President Vladimir Poutine.
In Russia, both countries discussed the expansion of bilateral cooperation across several sectors, including fisheries, food security, agriculture, tourism, sports, #TVET, transport and energy.
As a small island developing state (#SIDS), the #BlueEconomy is central to Seychelles’ development. In particular, both sides explored the possibilities of expanding partnership fisheries, while ensuring the sustainable management of the fishery resources.
In terms of #FoodSecurity, Russia is among the top global producers of cereals and chemical fertilizers thanks to its rich hydrocarbon reserves. The food security issue not only affects the local population of Seychelles but might also impact the smooth functioning of the island resort tourism, for which Seychelles is world-renowned. The Seychelles’ Minister of Tourism Amanda Berstein welcomes more Russian tourists and would like to see Aeroflot operate direct flights all year-round, instead of just seasonal flights at the moment.
On the sports front, several Seychellois athletes are undergoing training in Russia. The Minister of Sports Kalsey Belle wishes to expand the collaboration to other disciplines such as volleyball and judo and would welcome Russian trainers to Seychelles in order to uplift more local talent.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs Barry Faure underscored the interest of Seychelles to cooperate with Russia on developing renewable energy sources. This is in line with the emphasis on sustainable development and the decarbonization drive.
On the topic of education and training, Seychelles appreciates the education and training opportunities offered by Russia. In the future, it would be best for the training to be tied to the economic development needs and priorities of Seychelles.
President Herminie extended an invitation for a Russian military contingent to participate in the Seychelles’ Independence Day Parade. 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.