May 18, 2011 -- Discussions at State House yesterday between President James Michel and the visiting chief of the Portuguese armed forces Luis Arāujo focused on the scourge of piracy in the Indian Ocean.  

Accompanying Mr Arāujo to State House were the chief cabinet Major Manuel Rolo and the chief of staff for joint operational command rear admiral Almeida Carvalho.

Their visit coincides with the arrival in Port Victoria of the Portuguese naval vessel Vasco da Gama.   

Portugal also has a long range aircraft here to help fight piracy.

After meeting President Michel Mr Arāujo told the media: "We also spoke about the impact of piracy on the economy."

The frigate Vasco da Gama, named after the famous 16th century Portuguese explorer, is part of the European Union Naval Force. Its crew will engage in training exercises with their Seychellois naval partners.