June 17 2011 -- The People's Republic of China yesterday handed over to Seychelles two small aircraft for surveillance and inter-island transportation.

"The reception of the two airplanes today signifies the special and excellent relationship that exist between China and Seychelles, and also the fruit of our active diplomatic work to build on the bridges of friendship between Seychelles and other friendly countries to help us in our development," President James Michel said at the handing-over ceremony at the international airport.

The two Y12 aircraft from China are part of a grant to boost Seychelles aviation capabilities.

"Today I believe the handing over of the two aircraft proves that it is good and important to further develop special and personal relationships with different leaders and friendly countries, because Seychelles is a small country and we need the assistance of foreign friends and partners to help us in our development," said the President.

The two aircraft have been built by the China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation - CATIC, have 14 seats and the extra space is converted into an extra cargo compartment.

"The two planes would serve us very well in the economic development of our outer islands, which form part of our territory.   It will enhance our surveillance capacity in our Exclusive Economic Zone, to protect our resources and boost our capacity to fight against the scourge of piracy" said President Michel following his inspection of the aircraft.

The Y12E aircraft is of a commuter category, multi-purpose, light, and all metal semi-monocoque structure aircraft and can be used for short haul transportation of personnel and cargo, geological survey, aero-applications in agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry and fishery, communication, air ambulance as well as aerial-photographing services. It is a twin-engine, high monoplane with a single vertical tail and a non-retractable tricycle landing gear.