On the morning of Friday 1st December 2023, the newly accredited British High Commissioner to the Seychelles, H.E. Mr. Jeff Glekin, paid a Courtesy Call on the Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Roger Mancienne. Accompanying the Speaker was the Clerk of the National Assembly Mrs. Tania Isaac, and the Deputy Clerk Ms. Alexandria Faure.
H.E. Glekin thanked the Speaker for the warm welcome and remarked that his settling into Seychelles had been very pleasant. The High Commissioner noted that the ties between Seychelles and the United Kingdom have always been strong, and that the warm relations reflect our long standing history. The work of his predecessor, H.E. Mr. Patrick Lynch, was highly commended as the High Commissioner discussed continuing the work undertaken such as the promotion of democracy and good governance, work with civil society groups, and efforts in anti-corruption. In conjunction with this, H.E. Glekin noted his interest in the promotion of environmental protection, and the advocation of Small Island Development States (SIDS) in global forums.
The Speaker remarked that the areas of engagement between the UK and Seychelles have always been wide and multifaceted, particularly in the area of parliamentary engagement. This includes the close relationship developed with both the UK Parliament and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). The Clerk remarked that these direct links had contributed to the insightful capacity building and training of both Members and staff of the Secretariat. The Environmental Policy Implementation Committee (EPIC) and its mandate was also discussed, and an invitation was extended to H.E. Glekin for his future involvement in engagements of the National Assembly.
The Hon. Speaker wished the High Commissioner all the best in his duties, and presented him with a token of appreciation before the meeting concluded.
