• Seychelles president visits Russia, UAE to strengthen strategic partnerships
• Talks cover tourism, investment, transport, food security cooperation
• Trip reflects push for balanced international ties and economic resilience

Seychelles President Patrick Herminie is visiting Russia and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The trip reflects Seychelles’ “commitment to balanced international cooperation in the national interest,” the presidency said.

Accompanied by ministers and senior foreign ministry and diaspora officials, Herminie met Russian officials on Sunday, including Deputy Foreign Minister Georgy Borisenko.

Talks will cover tourism, investment, transport, air connectivity and food security to support economic resilience and sustainable development.

Russia and the United Arab Emirates are strategic partners that can provide financial and technical support in priority sectors.

The UAE is seeking to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean, a key zone for trade and maritime security, while Russia aims to strengthen its presence in Africa.

Seychelles offer opportunities in tourism — a top destination for Russian travelers — as well as in infrastructure and energy. Tourism remains the cornerstone of the archipelago’s economy.

Lydie Mobio