In a strategic diplomatic engagement that underscores the growing influence of parliamentary diplomacy, the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Seychelles have launched an enhanced initiative to strengthen their inter-parliamentary relations. The latest high-level discussions between the UAE’s Federal National Council (FNC) and a parliamentary delegation from Seychelles signify a commitment to more structured, forward-thinking, and inclusive collaboration that aligns with shared development goals and regional cooperation frameworks.
The meeting, which took place in Abu Dhabi, was led on the Emirati side by Saeed Al Abedi, Head of the UAE Parliamentary Friendship Committee with African Countries. Representing Seychelles was Waven William, Chairperson of the International Affairs Committee in the National Assembly. The two delegations held meaningful dialogue that covered a range of important sectors including economic investment, tourism, sustainability, climate change, education, and governance, with a specific focus on formalizing regular parliamentary engagement.
This diplomatic engagement is not just a reflection of political will, but also a testament to the UAE’s broader strategy of forging strong South-South cooperation with African nations, rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and the pursuit of sustainable development.
UAE ; The Role of Parliamentary Diplomacy in Modern Relations
In today’s dynamic global environment, traditional diplomatic channels are increasingly being complemented by parliamentary diplomacy. Legislators play a vital role in shaping policies, enacting laws that affect bilateral agreements, and building people-to-people connections. The UAE and Seychelles have acknowledged this by committing to deeper engagement between their respective parliaments.
During the dialogue, both sides emphasized the value of structured dialogue between lawmakers to promote transparency, build trust, and establish sustainable partnerships. They explored the possibility of forming joint working groups, holding annual bilateral forums, and facilitating reciprocal visits to strengthen legislative cooperation.
This is particularly significant as it reflects a shift in diplomacy—one that integrates the perspectives of the public and legislative branches into the broader foreign policy framework, reinforcing accountability and responsiveness in both nations’ international strategies.
Economic Integration and Investment Opportunities
The meeting also focused heavily on economic cooperation. As the UAE continues to invest significantly in Africa across multiple sectors, Seychelles offers a unique opportunity due to its strategic maritime location in the Indian Ocean, a stable political environment, and a forward-looking economic vision that aligns with the UAE’s interests in sustainable infrastructure, tourism, and renewable energy.
Both delegations explored potential avenues for Emirati investment in Seychelles’ infrastructure projects, blue economy initiatives, and tourism development zones. The UAE’s advanced logistics capabilities, access to capital, and established global trade networks were recognized as strong complements to Seychelles’ emerging market appeal and natural resource potential.
Plans for joint economic forums and trade missions were discussed, aiming to connect business communities, provide investment incentives, and foster greater collaboration between public and private sectors in both countries. There was also interest in boosting cooperation on port development, sustainable fisheries, and maritime safety.
Tourism and Cultural Exchange as a Foundation for Stronger Ties
Tourism emerged as another key sector for cooperation. The UAE, known for its globally connected aviation industry and luxury hospitality services, is well positioned to support Seychelles’ efforts to expand its tourism base and diversify visitor demographics.
The idea of establishing direct flights between the two nations, enhancing joint tourism promotions, and easing visa procedures was welcomed as a way to stimulate mutual travel and cultural curiosity. These initiatives are expected to strengthen economic ties while deepening cultural understanding and friendship between the people of both countries.
Cultural exchanges, including student programs, artistic residencies, and heritage preservation projects, were proposed to create a more meaningful and long-lasting connection beyond commercial ties. The aim is to ensure that bilateral relations are grounded not only in economic transactions but also in shared cultural appreciation and mutual respect.
Climate Change, Sustainability, and Environmental Collaboration
Given the vulnerability of Seychelles as a small island nation facing rising sea levels, and the UAE’s increasing leadership role in climate action, particularly as the host of COP28, environmental cooperation featured prominently in the discussions.
Seychelles has long advocated for sustainable development, marine conservation, and renewable energy adoption. The UAE, with its successful deployment of solar and wind energy projects, as well as its expertise in water desalination and sustainable urban development, can serve as a valuable partner in helping Seychelles scale its green economy.
The two nations discussed possible collaboration on joint environmental research, knowledge transfer on climate resilience, and participation in global initiatives focused on biodiversity protection and ocean preservation. They also emphasized the importance of uniting their voices in multilateral forums to push for fair and urgent climate action that takes into account the unique challenges faced by small island developing states.
Strengthening Education and Skills Development
Education is central to national development, and both sides recognized its importance in preparing future generations for a more interconnected, innovation-driven world. Discussions were held around building educational partnerships that include scholarships, academic exchanges, and vocational training programs.
The UAE expressed its willingness to offer specialized education opportunities to Seychellois students, particularly in fields such as renewable energy, marine sciences, public administration, and hospitality. In return, Emirati students and researchers could benefit from studying biodiversity and marine ecosystems in Seychelles, creating a mutually enriching educational experience.
Such cooperation is expected to not only build capacity but also cultivate long-term personal and professional networks that strengthen bilateral ties on a human level.
Enhancing Good Governance and Legislative Knowledge Sharing
A key takeaway from the discussions was the emphasis on sharing governance models and legislative practices. The two parliamentary delegations expressed keen interest in exchanging knowledge on lawmaking, public accountability mechanisms, and institutional reforms that support inclusive governance.
Topics such as gender equality, youth empowerment, digital transformation of government services, and enhancing citizen engagement were discussed as areas where both parliaments can learn from each other and apply best practices.
The possibility of establishing formal parliamentary training programs and workshops was also discussed, aimed at equipping lawmakers and parliamentary staff with the skills and tools needed to navigate today’s complex governance challenges.
Future Roadmap and Institutional Frameworks
To ensure continuity and progress, both parties agreed to draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlining a structured roadmap for parliamentary cooperation. This MoU will formalize mechanisms for communication, joint sessions, expert consultations, and monitoring of joint initiatives.
Plans are underway to establish a UAE–Seychelles Parliamentary Forum, which would serve as a platform for deeper policy discussions and for identifying innovative solutions to mutual challenges. This forum is expected to convene stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, and the private sector.
Both nations also committed to supporting each other’s candidacies and initiatives in regional and international parliamentary organizations, ensuring that their interests are represented on the global stage.
A Relationship Rooted in Trust and Shared Values
The partnership between the UAE and Seychelles is founded on years of mutual support and collaboration. From humanitarian assistance and health cooperation to education and infrastructure development, the two countries have built a strong, trust-based relationship.
This latest step to enhance parliamentary cooperation elevates the relationship to a new level—one that is more inclusive, participatory, and grounded in mutual development objectives.
Conclusion: A New Chapter of Bilateral Engagement
As the UAE and Seychelles embark on this new chapter of parliamentary cooperation, they set a powerful example of how small and large nations can come together to pursue shared prosperity, promote global peace, and address collective challenges.
By prioritizing legislative diplomacy, fostering cultural exchange, supporting education, and championing sustainability, both nations are demonstrating that effective bilateral relations must be multidimensional, inclusive, and future-oriented.
This strategic engagement not only paves the way for deeper bilateral collaboration but also positions the UAE and Seychelles as key players in shaping a more cooperative, resilient, and interconnected world.
Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
