The new Japanese Ambassador to Seychelles, Mr. Tatsushi Terada, presented his credentials to President James Michel this morning.

The President and the Japanese Ambassador discussed cooperation in fisheries, renewable energy, coastal management and the fight against piracy, amongst other issues.

"My speciality is the environment, so I look forward to cooperate in this area, as well as continuing the support of Japan in fisheries," said Ambassador Terada to the national media, following the accreditation ceremony.

He added that Japan had decided to assist Seychelles in the installation of a micro-grid system. The project will be funded under Japan’s Official Development Assistance Programme, and delivered via the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). It is aimed at assessing the feasibility of a system combining solar energy (photovoltaic) energy and diesel generators in Seychelles.

Ambassador Terada also said he would work to increase the number of visitors from Japan to the Seychelles islands, and also provide assistance for the extension of a fishing port, which was completed under a project financed by the Japanese government in June 2010.

President Michel met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in June 2013, when they discussed  the project for the 7th Fisheries Grant of the Japanese government for the extension of the Providence fishing port, among other areas of cooperation.

Ambassador Tatsushi Terada is based in Nairobi.