President Dr Patrick Herminie today received the Letters of Credence of H.E. Mr. Gia Matcharadze, Ambassador-Designate of Georgia to the Republic of Seychelles, in a ceremony held at State House.
Welcoming the Ambassador, President Herminie noted the cordial relations that Seychelles and Georgia have enjoyed since establishing diplomatic ties in March 2013, and expressed Seychelles' appreciation for Georgia's support for stronger representation of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in international decision-making. The President thanked the Government of Georgia for extending capacity-building and scholarship opportunities to Seychellois nationals.
President Herminie welcomed the prospect of practical cooperation in sport, ahead of the upcoming Indian Ocean Island Games. Georgia's strong record in judo, wrestling and weightlifting was highlighted as a natural starting point, with potential areas including visits by Georgian coaches to Seychelles, and training camps in Georgia for Seychellois athletes.
In his remarks, Ambassador Matcharadze described the bilateral relationship between Georgia and Seychelles as excellent, and affirmed his government's wish to further strengthen ties between the two countries. He said this year would be an important one for the relationship, noting that it would be consolidated through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, alongside continued Seychellois support for Georgia on international issues. The Ambassador conveyed his government's gratitude to the Seychellois Government and people, and extended wishes of prosperity and peace to the nation.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to multilateralism, international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes. The two countries also discussed cooperation on Small Island Developing States priorities, including equitable representation.
Following the accreditation ceremony, Ambassador Matcharadze paid a courtesy call on Vice-President Sebastien Pillay, during which the two further discussed avenues for strengthening cooperation between Seychelles and Georgia.
The ceremony marks the formal commencement of Ambassador Matcharadze's tenure as Georgia's representative to the Republic of Seychelles.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.
