Celebrating Russia’s rich heritage rooted in literature, music, science, and innovation, the President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Herminie, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs Veronique Herminie, attended the Russia National Day reception this evening at Savoy Resort & Spa.

Russia Day (Den Rossii) is the national holiday of Russia, celebrated annually on June 12. The day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty in 1990 by the First Congress of People’s Deputies. This foundational political act established the supremacy of Russian laws over Soviet central legislation and today symbolizes national pride, independence, and Russia’s cultural heritage.

This year, Seychelles and Russia celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. In the years following Seychelles’ Independence in 1976, Russia provided numerous scholarships to Seychellois students in medicine, engineering, making invaluable contributions to nation-building efforts. Russia has also provided training and exposure opportunities for Seychellois athletes.

In his opening remarks, following the performance of the national anthems of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Seychelles, the Russian Ambassador, Artyom Kozhin, noted that Russia continues to be one of the top source markets for Seychelles’ tourism industry, with more than 37,000 Russian tourists visiting the islands last year. He highlighted that this has been made possible thanks to direct flights operated by Aeroflot between Moscow and Victoria. Although Aeroflot traditionally suspended operations during the summer season, he announced that flights would resume in early July this year. Ambassador Kozhin further expressed hope that, starting in 2027, Aeroflot would operate year-round. He added that the archipelago remains one of the most desirable destinations for Russian tourists, who represent one of the highest-spending visitor groups in Seychelles.

He continued,“Culture is a growing aspect of our relations. Russian dance groups are taking part in local cultural events such as the Dancing Biennale and the World Artistic Dance competitions, with the next event scheduled for July, while Seychellois dancers have already performed successfully in Moscow in March. The first Russian Film Week, held in November last year, attracted a full house at Deepam Cinema. We hope this will become a cherished tradition.”

To conclude his address, Ambassador Artyom Kozhin announced that he had completed his tenure as the Ambassador of the Russia to Seychelles. He expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Seychelles for their warm hospitality and the strong cooperation fostered during his diplomatic mission.

In the remarks of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora he stated that Seychelles remains grateful for the support provided through the supply of essential commodities, which has served as a tangible expression of Russia’s friendship with Seychelles. He noted that such cooperation reflects the mutual respect and goodwill that continue to underpin bilateral relations and has contributed meaningfully to the well-being and development of the Seychellois people. He further added that, looking to the future, the planned establishment of a Seychelles Embassy in Moscow will mark another important milestone in the growing partnership between the two nations.

“We are equally pleased to see cooperation expanding into new areas. Recent progress in cultural exchanges, heritage preservation, education, sports, science, and technology reflects the growing breadth of our partnership. These initiatives not only create opportunities for our institutions and professionals but also help build lasting connections between our peoples, particularly among the younger generation.” said Minister Barry Faure.

Following their formal addresses, the guests raised a toast to the continued diplomatic relations between the two nations and to stronger friendship in the years to come.

The event also featured a video presentation highlighting the milestones of the 50-year diplomatic relationship between Russia and Seychelles. Guests were treated to an evening of Russian cuisine and cultural exchange, reflecting the warmth and enduring friendship between the two nations.

During his first State Visit to the Russian Federation in April, President Dr Patrick Herminie held a tête-à-tête meeting with the President of the Russian Federation, H.E. Vladimir Putin. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across key sectors, with the Russian Federation expressing its readiness to continue supporting Seychelles in areas such as education, trade, infrastructure development, health, and capacity building, thereby further reinforcing the longstanding partnership between the two countries.

The reception was attended by Vice President, Mr. Sebastien Pillay, Hon. Azarel Ernesta, Speaker of the National Assembly, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Hon. Justice Anthony Fernando, President of the Court of Appeal, Principal Minister Mr Wallace Cosgrow, Ms Idith Alexander, Minister for Employment and Human Resource Planning, Mr David Pierre, Minister for Education and Human Resource Development, Ms Veronique Laporte, Minister for Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation, Mr James Camille, Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, Ms Eveline Rose, Minister for Local Government and Inner Islands, Mrs Amanda Bernstein, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Ms Kalsey Belle, Minister for Youth and Sports, Brigadier Michael Rosette, Chief of the Seychelles Defence Forces, as well as CEOs, Principal Secretaries, and members of the Diplomatic Corps.