April 26, 2011 -- The Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Diagnostic Centre, built at a cost of 10 million dollars (US), at Seychelles Hospital has opened its doors for the first time today, starting its mission to become one of the best diagnostic centres in the region.

The Diagnostic Centre was opened by President James Michel yesterday morning, in the presence of the Minister of Health of the United Arab Emirates Dr. Hanif Hassan Ali Al Qassim, and the Seychelles Minister for Health, Dr. Erna H. Athanasius.

"This centre will radically transform our health system,, and provide the specialised tools for the early detection of diseases and medical conditions. We are now able to create the platform to ensure that advanced medical treatment can be offered in our country. This centre has the best facilities for diagnosis and will provide opportunities for health professionals to train and develop their capacities, as well as help their patients more effectively," said President Michel following his tour of the medical facility.

The Diagnostic Centre is equipped with start of art modern diagnostic facilities, such as X-ray machines, MRI and CT scanners as well as a mammogram, teleconference facilities, and other high-tech equipment. It has been fully funded and offered as a gift to the People of Seychelles by the President of the United Arab Emirates, H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"We are deeply grateful to the President and the people of the United Arab Emirates for this generous gift. It is a testament to the special friendship between Seychelles and the UAE, and it reminds us of the great importance we give to the health and wellbeing of our people," said President Michel.

The President said that the Diagnostic Centre is an important step towards improving the health system, as it will enable early detection of medical conditions, but that ultimately health promotion work also needs to be done to ensure that healthy living is encouraged in order to enable disease control and prevention.