Ambassador Vladimir Belous has said the passage of the Russian navy ship ‘Severomorsk’ is another proof of amicable relations between his country and Seychelles.
He has stressed that the friendship exists not only in the military sphere, but extends to every aspect of the two countries’ dialogue.
The anti-submarine destroyer spent five days in Port Victoria this week, as part of a fleet which included a rescue tugboat and a tanker. The Seychelles’ transit surely offered a good resting opportunity to the crew after they had taken part in the fight to retake the Syrian city of Aleppo from the Islamic State (Isis).
The ambassador of the Russian Federation was speaking during a reception on board the ship on Tuesday evening, where he toasted to the health of President Danny Faure and to the well-being and prosperity of the Seychellois people. The chief military advisor Colonel Clifford Roseline had the honour of returning the toast to President Vladimir Putin and the Russian people.
Dignitaries present included Vice-President Vincent Meriton, government ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, other military officials and graduates from Russian universities among other guests.
Ambassador Belous remarked that Russia continues to play a key role in fostering the resolution of the Syrian conflict by sponsoring the talks between the government and opposition forces, while also contributing in humanitarian aid. He emphasised that in its approach in resolving the complex situation in Syria, Russia strictly adheres to the UN Charter and measures its every step on the global arena with the highest degree of responsibility and in perfect compliance with international law.
“We believe that only guided by these principles, as well as by mutual respect, joint assessment of global problems and collective decision-making can humanity pave the way from the failed unipolar global system towards a fairer and safer multipolar world. We strongly advocate for such truly democratic world,” he said.
Regarding the bilateral cooperation with Seychelles whose he said the contribution towards fighting maritime banditry can hardly be underestimated, the ambassador added that Russian navy ships have been taking part in patrol missions in the Indian Ocean. He also commended Seychelles for making every effort to create a peaceful and stable international environment conducive for sustainable social development. This shared approach, he concluded, provides solid reassurance that the relations between the two countries will continue to grow from strength to strength and to the benefit of our peoples.
On behalf of the Chief of the Seychelles People’s Defense Forces (SPDF) Brigadier Leopold Payet, Colonel Roseline remarked that it is always a pleasure to welcome “fellow comrades of the Russian Navy to our shores”.
He reminded that the relations between the two countries go a long way, permitting assistance, especially in training, for Seychellois who have now become senior officers and are contributing to the country’s development. The development he added is now helped by the presence of foreign navy ships, including Russian, which help in maintaining peace and security in the region.
He hoped that the Russian navy will maintain its presence so that the threat of piracy will not resurge. He also hoped that Seychelles and Russia will continue to maintain strong bonds, especially in the maritime sector.
Source : Seychelles NATION