The presentation of credentials was held this morning at State House in the presence of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Mr. Barry Faure.

The presentation marks a continued commitment to strengthening the longstanding diplomatic relations between Seychelles and Venezuela, which were established on 15 April 1991.

During discussions with President Dr. Patrick Herminie, Ambassador Acevedo expressed his pleasure at being in Seychelles, noting the similarities shared between the two countries, including their culture, history, environment, and common development priorities. He highlighted the importance of further strengthening the existing friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

The discussions focused on areas of mutual interest, including opportunities to expand cooperation through exchange programmes, particularly in education, medical, cultural, and sporting fields, with the aim of further strengthening people-to-people relations. Both sides also exchanged views on international developments and global affairs.

President Herminie conveyed his support and sympathy following the earthquake that occurred in Venezuela in late June this year. On behalf of the Government and people of Venezuela, Ambassador Acevedo expressed his appreciation for the President’s gesture of solidarity and support.

The two sides also discussed the visa waiver agreement, which is expected to be signed this year, aimed at facilitating official travel, enhancing diplomatic engagement, and strengthening cooperation between Seychelles and Venezuela.

President Herminie and Ambassador Acevedo further highlighted the importance of continued collaboration within the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), as well as Seychelles’ advocacy for the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), which seeks to address the unique vulnerabilities and challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Ambassador Acevedo reaffirmed Venezuela’s continued support for initiatives aimed at advancing the interests and priorities of developing countries.

President Herminie congratulated Ambassador Acevedo on his appointment and reiterated Seychelles’ commitment to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Following his meeting with President Herminie, H.E. Mr. Carlos Feo Acevedo paid a courtesy call on the Vice President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Sebastien Pillay, whereby they discussed opportunities for cooperation across several areas of mutual interest, including education, the preservation of languages, disaster risk management and mitigation, climate change, agriculture and energy.

H.E. Mr. Carlos Feo Acevedo, who will be based in Pretoria, South Africa, becomes the third Venezuelan Ambassador to be accredited to the Republic of Seychelles.