H.E. Mrs Francesca Alessandra Azais Des Comtes Tatistscheff, Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to the Republic of Seychelles, paid a farewell courtesy call on the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, at State House this morning.

During the meeting, President Herminie expressed his sincere gratitude to Ambassador Azais for her steadfast service and for significantly enhancing bilateral ties between the Republic of Seychelles and the Sovereign Order of Malta. He acknowledged her valuable contributions over the years, particularly her involvement in community-focused initiatives such as the President’s Village project.

The President noted that, following feedback received from residents, the Government intends to undertake renovation works at President’s Village and expressed hope that the Sovereign Order of Malta may continue its spirit of partnership through possible support and donations.

Discussions also focused on pressing social priorities, notably youth development, mental health, and addiction areas which the President described as growing national concerns. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and welcomed the possibility of technical expertise and capacity-building support from the Sovereign Order of Malta in addressing these challenges.

President Herminie took the opportunity to once again commend Ambassador Azais for her dedication, support, and commitment to the Republic of Seychelles throughout her tenure.

Commenting on her tenure, Ambassador Azais expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of Seychelles for the warmth and friendship extended to her since her arrival in 1999. She shared that Seychelles holds a special place in her heart, where she built deep personal and professional connections over the years.

“My dedication has always been to serve the people, especially those in need,” Ambassador Azais stated during an interview. She highlighted her cooperation with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Social Services, and other entities committed to assisting vulnerable communities.

Ambassador Azais further affirmed her intention to maintain close contact with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora to ensure the continued strengthening of the faithful and effective partnership between the Republic of Seychelles and the Sovereign Order of Malta.

President Herminie reassured the Ambassador that she could always count on his support in any future endeavors.

To note, yesterday, Ambassador Francesca Alessandra Azais des Comtes Tastistcheff also paid a farewell courtesy call on Vice President Sebastien Pillay. Their discussions centered on cultural heritage and art preservation.

Ambassador Azais emphasised the importance of maintaining the authenticity and proper upkeep of national monuments, referencing the recent restoration of the iconic Victoria national monuments to their original white colour late last January.

Given her passion for art, Ambassador Azais and the Vice President also addressed the challenges faced by artists, highlighting ongoing operational difficulties and resource gaps that continue to affect project delivery and cultural initiatives. They further underscored the importance of preserving Seychelles’ architectural heritage, particularly landmark buildings in Victoria, including the Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market and the Court House near the Clock Tower.

On his part, Vice President Sebastien Pillay conveyed his appreciation for Ambassador Azais’ work in both diplomacy and the arts and extended his best wishes for her future projects.

The successor to Ambassador Azais will be her son, Mr. Alessandro Azais, who is expected to arrive in Seychelles in the coming weeks. His accreditation ceremony is anticipated to take place in mid-April.

In attendance to the farewell visit with the President of the Republic of Seychelles was Mr. Barry Faure the Minster for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Ms. Lindy Enersta Director General for Bilateral Affairs Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mr. James Carpin Third Secretary Bilateral Division from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador Azais’ relationship with Seychelles spans more than two decades. She first arrived in the country in 1999 as a visitor and quickly formed enduring friendships and partnerships within the Seychellois community. Her commitment and dedication to strengthening relations between Seychelles and the Sovereign Order of Malta led to her appointment as Chargé d’Affaires in 2005. After seven years of distinguished service in that role, she was appointed Ambassador in 2019. Beyond diplomacy, Ambassador Azais is also an accomplished artist. She contributed portraits of former leaders who have occupied the office of the President which are presently showcased in Salon de Gouverneur at Statehouse.