On the afternoon of Wednesday 10th December 2025, the Resident Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Seychelles H.E. Mr. Sakuta Makoto paid a Courtesy Call on the Speaker of the National Assembly of Seychelles Hon. Azarel Ernesta.
Ambassador Sakuta began the meeting by extending his sincere congratulations on the election of Hon. Speaker Ernesta as the first female Parliamentary Presiding Officer in Seychelles, drawing a parallel to the recent successful election of Japan’s first female Prime Minister H.E. Takaichi Sanae who was elected in October 2025. The Ambassador expressed that the development of women in leadership positions represents a wonderful step forward globally, demonstrating a positive shift in equality. The discussions then explored opportunities to deepen collaboration between Seychelles and Japan, with a particular focus on technical support and capacity-building initiatives. H.E. Sakuta highlighted the role of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which has provided training to over 400 Seychellois citizens to date.
Hon. Ernesta and Ambassador Sakuta also discussed the challenges faced by Small Island nations, including persistent pollution and sustainability. The Hon. Speaker emphasised the need to adopt more environmentally conscious practices both nationally and in the discharge of parliamentary functions. It was noted that Japan is poised to host the upcoming Green Expo 2027, also known as the International Horticultural Exhibition, under the theme "Scenery of the Future for Happiness". This expo will serve as a principal forum for various parties to showcase sustainable solutions, eco-tech developments, and strengthen environmental cooperation.
Speaker Ernesta thanked the Ambassador for his visit and concluded the meeting with an exchange of tokens of appreciation. Following the Courtesy Call, the Japanese Delegation then called on the Deputy Speaker Hon. Egbert Aglae, and the Leader of the Opposition Hon. Bernard Georges.
