On the morning of Tuesday 17th February 2026, a delegation of the European Parliament Committee on Fisheries led by MEP Emma Wiesner, paid a Courtesy Call on the Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Azarel Ernesta.
The delegation is currently in Seychelles on a working mission to engage with key stakeholders, including the Seychelles Ports Authority and Indian Ocean Tuna (IOT) Ltd., with the aim of further strengthening discussions surrounding the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA). The longstanding partnership between the European Union and the Republic of Seychelles under the SFPA framework was acknowledged as one built on strong foundations, with both parties emphasising that continued stakeholder engagement remains essential in reinforcing cooperation.
Discussions led by MEP Wiesner centered on the role of parliament in overseeing the fisheries sector, as well as the institutional structures, such as committees. In her remarks, the Honourable Speaker provided an overview of the Assembly’s current proceedings, noting that following the recent election period and change in Government, parliament is presently undertaking deliberations on the 2026 national budget which has delayed other legislative proceedings. The Speaker further outlined the committees currently constituted by the House, highlighting that certain key sectoral committees such as fisheries, tourism, environment (encompassing climate change and sustainability), have yet to be established. She underscored that the eventual formation of these committees would further enhance parliamentary oversight and sector-specific engagement.
Particular emphasis was also placed on the importance of achieving parliamentary autonomy through the finalisation and enactment of the National Assembly Administration Bill: a milestone initiative in the institutional development of the National Assembly. The Speaker reaffirmed that through newly established committees and existing oversight bodies, including the International Affairs Committee (IAC), such engagements would continue to consolidate and strengthen the partnership between Seychelles and the European Union.
Discussions concluded with the delegation expressing sincere appreciation for the courtesy extended by the Speaker. Hon. Ernesta conveyed her best wishes to the delegation for the remainder of their working mission in Seychelles, before the meeting came to a close.
