Priority to youth and maritime safety in the Indian Ocean

On May 17, 2024, Mauritius handed over the presidency of the Indian Ocean Commission to Seychelles Foreign Minister Radegonde. This took place at the closing ceremony of the 38th ordinary session of the IOC Council of Ministers.

Speaking to journalists, Radegonde emphasized the need for better connectivity, stating, « We want to focus on connectivity. There must be regular passenger and freight traffic. We need to seriously address this issue of how we can link our islands and have reliable connectivity ». He added that improving connectivity would support the IOC’s goal of establishing a bulk import system for the islands. « We depend on imports and the price of foreign currency. Today’s concern for maritime safety is driving up prices. We need a wholesale import system, but there must be means of distribution », said Radegonde.

Radegonde also expressed his intention to continue the initiatives started under the Mauritian presidency. For the first time, Seychelles has adopted the theme « Youth, the driving force behind development », and plans to involve young parliamentarians from the region in an upcoming meeting.

During its presidency, Seychelles will also address environmental protection, climate change, and cultural issues. The Indian Ocean Commission, established in 1982, includes Seychelles, Madagascar, the Comoros, Mauritius, and Réunion, a French overseas department.