April 13, 2010 - Both Seychelles and Libya recognize the importance of peace and security in Africa, President James A Michel said yesterday upon his return from a one-day official visit in Tripoli.

President Michel held high-level talks with Libya's leader Colonel Muammar al-Gaddafi.

The rise of piracy in the Horn of Africa region has brought new challenges for African states and it is important that all African states come together to try and solve the problem, President Michel said.

"It is only through coordination and cooperation among all African partners that we will be able to deal with the continued instability of failed states in Africa and its negative consequences for regional peace and prosperity," added the President.

"Both Libya and Seychelles have reocgnised the importance of this for the future of our children," President Michel remarked.

In the forthcoming African Union summit later this year, both Libya and Seychelles will be calling for increased resources for peace and security, and increased commitment to a united African approach on such issues.
 
President Michel has congratulated the Libyan leader on his leadership in the process of building a united continent under the umbrella of the African Union.

"Both Seychelles and Libya are committed to building a united continent, which sets the platform for optimum development of all member states. As two middle income states, we are very much aware of the need for development beyond the traditional dependence on development aid. We share a common desire to enhance the prospects for a sustainable development framework for Africa," Mr Michel said.

President Michel has thanked the Libyan leader for the support it gave Seychelles during the economic reform programme. In February Libya cancelled over 50% of the debt owed it by Seychelles.

The Libyan leader has also noted the excellent opportunities that exist for enhancing the investment and trade ties between the two countries, particularly in the fields of tourism, petroleum exploration and communications.

A specialized Libyan delegation will be travelling to Seychelles later this year to explore and promote these opportunities.