Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, James Camille, met with senior Immigration officers at supervisor level, responsible for border control at the Seychelles International Airport to hear directly from the team about their work, the challenges they face and ways to further improve the services they provide.

The meeting highlighted the important role these officers play in keeping our borders secure. As some of the first representatives of Seychelles that visitors and returning residents encounter, Immigration officers carry an important responsibility of balancing strong border controls with professional, respectful and efficient service.

The Minister spoke with the team about strengthening capacity, reviewing internal processes and finding practical ways to support officers in carrying out their duties effectively. He also took the time to listen to the concerns raised by the officers and discussed possible solutions and areas for improvement.

The Minister commended the team for their continued hard work and dedication, recognising that working at our borders requires professionalism, vigilance and a strong sense of responsibility.

He encouraged the officers to continue upholding the law, supporting one another and maintaining the high standards expected of those entrusted with protecting and managing Seychelles’ borders.

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.

Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, James Camille, welcomed representatives of the Seychelles Law Commission for a courtesy visit, with Director Mr. Yohan Liyanage and Senior Legal Counsel Mrs. Julia Jean in attendance.

During the visit, the Minister was presented with a Special Commemorative Edition of the Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles, published to mark the 50th Anniversary of Seychelles’ Independence.

The commemorative edition provides a meaningful reflection on the country’s constitutional journey and the development of the legal foundations that continue to shape our nation.

The occasion also highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating Seychelles’ constitutional heritage as the country reflects on five decades of independence and looks towards the future.

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.

US Chargé d’Affaires Pays Courtesy Call on Minister Camille

The newly accredited Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Seychelles, Mr. Christopher Green, paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, James Camille, as part of his introductory engagement in Seychelles.

The meeting provided an opportunity to reaffirm the longstanding friendship and strong bilateral relations between Seychelles and the United States and to discuss areas of mutual interest and continued cooperation.

Discussions centred on shared priorities in law enforcement, maritime security and national security, as well as opportunities to further strengthen collaboration and exchange between the two countries. Both sides recognised the importance of sustained cooperation and strong international partnerships in addressing emerging security challenges and promoting a safe and secure environment.

Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, James Camille, welcomed Mr. Green and highlighted the longstanding ties between Seychelles and the United States, noting the value of the partnership and the continued opportunities to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

The courtesy call reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to maintaining constructive engagement and strengthening the close and longstanding relationship between Seychelles and the United States.

Mr. Green was accompanied by Ms. Myra Labiche, Public Engagement Specialist at the United States Embassy in Seychelles.