The President of the Republic of Seychelles,Dr. Patrick Herminietoday received the Letters of Credence ofHer Excellency Mrs. Tran Thi Thu ThinAmbassador-Designate of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Republic of Seychelles, during an accreditation ceremony held at the Salon du Gouverneur at State House.

President Herminie warmly welcomed Ambassador Tran Thi Thu Thin to Seychelles and congratulated her on her appointment. The President reaffirmed Seychelles’ commitment to strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Seychelles and Vietnam.

Following the presentation of credentials, President Herminie and Ambassador Tran held cordial discussions on the strong political relations and bilateral cooperation that have existed between the two countries since the 1980s. The discussions focused on opportunities to further deepen collaboration in key sectors, including maritime security, the blue economy, health, tourism, trade, investment, fisheries, and agriculture.

President Herminie highlighted the significant potential for expanded cooperation in maritime security and the blue economy, noting that Seychelles could benefit from Vietnam’s extensive experience and expertise in these areas. He also acknowledged Vietnam’s achievements in healthcare and expressed interest in exploring opportunities for greater cooperation in the health sector.

Ambassador Tran Thi Thu Thin expressed her honour of being appointed Ambassador to Seychelles and reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with both governments to elevate bilateral relations to an even higher level during her tenure.

Both sides also explored avenues to revitalise and strengthen cooperation through the possible conclusion of aVisa Waiver Agreement for ordinary passport holders.Such an agreement would facilitategreater people-to-people exchanges and support the expansion of tourism, trade, investment, and business partnerships between Seychelles and Vietnam.

Trade and investment opportunities also featured prominently in the discussions, with both parties recognising the potential for businesses from Seychelles and Vietnam to explore new avenues for cooperation, trade, and exports.

President Herminie expressed confidence that the partnership between Seychelles and Vietnam would continue to strengthen in the years ahead and wished Ambassador Tran success in her mission to further advance cooperation between the two countries.

Ambassador Tran Thi Thu Thin will be resident inMaputo, Mozambique, and will serve as Ambassador to the Republic of Seychelles for a three-year term.