The Ministry of Homeland Security and Civil Affairs welcomed representatives of the High Commission of India for a courtesy call focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and continued collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
During the meeting, the Indian High Commission commended Seychelles for its continued participation in training programmes offered by India, noting a growing number of Seychellois applicants. The High Commission also expressed appreciation for the effective cooperation and coordination demonstrated by Seychelles during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Seychelles in June, with special recognition extended to the Seychelles Police Force and other departments under the Ministry for their professionalism and support in ensuring the successful visit.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of capacity building in emerging areas of security, particularly the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in criminal activities. The Minister noted the need to strengthen capabilities to address emerging threats, including the potential use of AI to manipulate or interfere with digital evidence, while also underscoring the importance of enhanced capacity in cybersecurity, cybercrime investigation and digital forensics.
The meeting further addressed trafficking in persons, with the Indian High Commission expressing its appreciation for the work of the Trafficking in Persons Secretariat in supporting Indian nationals who may be victims of exploitation. The Secretariat’s role in facilitating assistance, access to appropriate support and cooperation with relevant authorities in the pursuit of justice was acknowledged.
Both sides reaffirmed the importance of continuous cooperation, knowledge sharing and capacity building as Seychelles and India work together to address evolving security challenges.
The courtesy call reflects the longstanding and growing partnership between Seychelles and India, and the shared commitment to strengthening cooperation in support of national security, public safety and the protection of people.
The meeting was also attended by Principal Secretary for Homeland Security Ms. Michelle Sabury, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ron Bonnelame and Director of National Information Sharing Coordination Centre Lieutenant Colonel Ivel Ernesta
The Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, Mr. James Camille, today received a courtesy call from the newly accredited Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Seychelles, H.E. Mr. Kirill Gennadievich Sokolov-Sheherbachev.
The courtesy call provided an opportunity for the Ambassador to formally introduce himself and engage in discussions aimed at further strengthening the longstanding and friendly relations between Seychelles and the Russian Federation. The meeting underscored the importance both countries place on maintaining strong diplomatic ties and fostering cooperation in areas of shared interest.
During the discussions, Minister Camille and Ambassador Sokolov-Sheherbachev exchanged views on a range of matters relating to bilateral cooperation, with particular emphasis on collaboration in the fields of security, capacity building and law enforcement. Both sides highlighted the value of continued engagement and dialogue as a means of advancing mutual priorities and reinforcing the partnership between the two nations.
Minister Camille took the opportunity to express the Government of Seychelles’ sincere appreciation for the support extended by the Russian Federation over the years, notably the donation of search dogs and the specialised training provided to Seychelles Police K9 Unit officers. These contributions have significantly enhanced the operational capabilities of local law enforcement agencies and strengthened national security efforts.
The Minister further acknowledged the importance of international partnerships in addressing evolving security challenges and reaffirmed Seychelles’ commitment to working closely with international partners to build capacity and promote safety and security for all.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to maintaining close cooperation and exploring new opportunities to further strengthen the longstanding friendship and partnership between Seychelles and the Russian Federation.
Seychelles has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Africa’s peace and security architecture during the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), held in Luanda, Republic of Angola, under the theme “Strengthening Mechanisms for Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa.”
Representing thePresident of the Republic,Dr. Patrick Herminie, Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs,Mr. James Camille, who headed the Seychelles delegation, addressed the Assembly and highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing emerging security challenges across the continent.
In his intervention, Minister Camille noted that while Seychelles is geographically distant from many of the conflicts affecting the continent, it remains closely connected to their consequences through the shared maritime domain. Drawing on Seychelles’ experience in the Western Indian Ocean, particularly through its’ engagement in the Contact Group on Illicit Maritime Activities, he underscored the value of information-sharing, trust and coordinated action in addressing common security threats and strengthening conflict prevention efforts.
Minister Camille further emphasized that sustainable peace requires not only effective response mechanisms but also a renewed focus on prevention, early warning and cooperation among Member States and regional institutions.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Camille called on Member States to demonstrate greater political resolve and to fully utilize the institutions, mechanisms and partnerships established by the African Union to advance peace and security across the continent. He reaffirmed Seychelles’ readiness to work alongside fellow Member States in building an Africa that acts decisively to prevent crises before they escalate and one that is increasingly recognised not only for resolving conflicts, but also for preventing them through foresight, unity and collective action.
Minister Camille was accompanied byExecutive Director at the Ministry of Homeland Security and Civil Affairs,Ms. Michelle Sabury; Second Secretary at the Embassy of the Republic of Seychelles in Ethiopia,Ms. Trisha Hoareau and Protocol and Foreign Relations Officer and Acting Honorary Consul for Seychelles in Angola,Mr. Amine Mohamad Bashir.
The Minister for Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation, Ms. Veronique Laporte, and the Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, Mr. James Camille, conducted a joint visit to the Arrival Lounge at Seychelles International Airport yesterday morning as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen border management, enhance operational efficiency and improve the passenger experience.
The visit followed discussions with senior officers of the Immigration Department responsible for border control operations at the airport. These discussions focused on assessing current operational requirements, identifying challenges faced by frontline officers and exploring opportunities to further strengthen security and service delivery.
During the visit, the Ministers reviewed the current operational arrangements within the Arrival Lounge and assessed a number of new measures being introduced to improve coordination, efficiency and security at the airport. Particular attention was given to strengthening collaboration between the Immigration Department and the Seychelles Airports Authority to ensure a smooth, secure and efficient arrival process for passengers.
The Ministers were also briefed on proposed improvements to the Arrival Lounge, including the introduction of a new baggage conveyor system and enhancements to border security infrastructure. These initiatives are expected to support the work of Immigration and Police officers while improving operational effectiveness and passenger flow.
The site visit provided both Ministers with an opportunity to engage directly with officers on the ground, gain first-hand insight into daily operations and consider practical solutions that could further support border management functions at Seychelles' main international gateway.
The visit reflects the Government's continued commitment to modernising airport operations, strengthening border controls and ensuring that border management agencies are equipped with the necessary tools, infrastructure, resources and support to effectively safeguard the country while facilitating the smooth movement of legitimate travellers.