Minister Charles Fonseka Welcomes H.E. Mr. Henk Jan Bakker, Ambassador-Designate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
The Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr. Charles Fonseka, warmly welcomed His Excellency Mr. Henk Jan Bakker, Ambassador-Designate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, during a courtesy call aimed at further strengthening the longstanding partnership between Seychelles and the Netherlands.
Minister Fonseka expressed Seychelles' appreciation for the Netherlands' unwavering contributions to maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean, particularly through the European Union naval operations, such as EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta, which have played a critical role in securing key maritime routes. "The Netherlands' involvement in Operation Atalanta has been pivotal in countering the threat of piracy near the Somali coast. Seychelles recognises the need for continued vigilance and international cooperation to tackle these evolving threats," said Minister Fonseka.
The discussions also underscored the importance of burden-sharing in maritime security, with Seychelles expressing gratitude for the Netherlands’ contributions in naval assets, logistical support, and joint training exercises. The two nations discussed the urgent issue of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, which threatens both the region's economic stability and marine ecosystems. Seychelles praised the Netherlands for its leadership in global fisheries management.
Minister Fonseka also recognised the Netherlands' commitment to promoting Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) through the CRIMARIO project and expressed interest in strengthening cooperation to better monitor and secure Seychelles’ maritime zones.
The meeting further highlighted past cooperation between the two countries in prison services, with the contribution of a Dutch correctional facility professional to the development of Montagne Posée Prison from 2011 to 2014. Seychelles is keen to explore new opportunities for collaboration in this sector.
Seychelles reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the Netherlands, particularly in the face of evolving maritime security challenges. Minister Fonseka concluded by expressing his eagerness to deepen cooperation in operational responses, legal reforms, and capacity building to ensure the security of our shared waters.
The meeting was also attended by the Principal Secretary of the Department of Immigration and Civil Status Mr. Allain Volcere, Deputy Commissioner of the Seychelles Police Mr. Francis Songoire , Director of NISCC Captain Gerald Wong-Pool, Executive Director Mrs. Mastura Shah-Faure and Chief Inspector of the Seychelles Prisons Services Gerry Uranie.