The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, presented the instruments of appointment to Mr Alain St Ange as Ambassador-at-Large on Thursday, during which improving air connectivity, expanding tourism outreach and reinforcing strategic coordination within the sector, emerged as key issues discussed.  

The presentation ceremony, held at Salon des Gouverneurs, was followed by an exchange on strategic measures to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of Seychelles’ tourism industry in the context of evolving global developments.

President Herminie underlined the importance of drawing lessons from current international developments, including the ongoing Middle East crisis, and identifying opportunities to advance national interests.

“We need to reflect what we have learned from recent developments, and how these lessons can position Seychelles to better advance its national interests,” the President stated. He continued, “if we take real estate, for example, a lot of people are fleeing certain countries because of the war. We need to leverage that to our advantage, to promote Seychelles as a country with stability.”

The President emphasised that Seychelles must continue to position itself as a stable and attractive destination, while adapting strategically to shifts in global travel patterns.

Ambassador-at-Large Mr St. Ange expressed appreciation for the confidence placed in him and pledged his commitment to supporting the President in advancing the country’s tourism agenda.

“First of all, thank you for the confidence that you have placed in me, and I assure you of my full support towards the success of your tenure as President” he stated.

Ambassador-at-Large Mr St Ange highlighted the central role of aviation in sustaining the tourism sector, noting that effective air connectivity remains critical to the continued growth of the industry.

He referred to ongoing discussions with the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Ms Amanda Bernstein, regarding a potential new route linking Tanzania, Russia, and Seychelles, aimed at facilitating increased visitor arrivals to the island nation.

“For these routes to be viable, it must ensure consistent passenger flow in both directions, and I am in full support should this decision is to be taken,” he said, adding that consideration should also be given to converting seasonal flights into year-round services.”

Ambassador-at-Large Mr St. Ange further highlighted the importance of pursuing new international routes through engagements with key partners, including Paris and Russia, as part of efforts to diversify access to the destination.

He also proposed the establishment of an executive and a dedicated committee to focus on tourism, reiterating that the sector remains the primary pillar of the economy.

Additionally, Ambassador-at-Large Mr St. Ange called for the organisation of international tourism fairs in Seychelles to attract key stakeholders in aviation, tour operations and cruise ship industries, while enhancing the country’s visibility as a destination.

Discussions also addressed the potential reintroduction of the carnival, with a renewed concept integrating Creole cultural elements to create a distinctive national event and further promote Seychelles’ cultural identity.

In conclusion, President Herminie expressed confidence in Mr St. Ange’s expertise and capacity to contribute meaningfully to the country. “I know your capacity and capability, particularly in the tourism field, and I am confident that you will delivery with distinction,” the President stated.

Footnote

Alain St. Ange is a renowned Seychellois internally recognised tourism expert and former Minister for Tourism and Culture from 2012 to 2016. Raised on La Digue, he studied in Germany and France before serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) and later as Minister responsible for tourism, civil aviation, ports and marine. He is credited with advancing Seychelles’ tourism sector through initiatives such as the Carnaval International de Victoria and co-founding the Vanilla Islands organisation, and continues to advocate for sustainable tourism development.