In an exclusive interview with Sputnik Africa, Seychelles’ Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde emphasized the resilience and sovereignty of African nations, particularly in standing firm amid external pressures.
"Those of us who have turned up for this meeting, we've done it because we're standing on our own two feet, disregarding the pressures that may exist, that may be put on certain countries," he said on the sidelines of the first Russia-Africa ministerial conference in Sochi.
Highlighting the Seychelles’ relationship with Russia, Radegonde described it as a partnership grounded in open dialogue and mutual respect.
"We are a sovereign nation, small, but we pride ourselves in really taking the stand when we need to take a stand," he explained, noting that despite occasional differences, such a partnership allows for frank communication between the two countries.
The minister further praised the nation’s longstanding relationship with Russia, describing it as built on "genuine friendship and understanding."
"Russia has always treated Seychelles as an equal," he said, highlighting the mutual respect at the core of their interactions.
The Seychelles' top diplomat also noted that tourism remains a key area of collaboration, with the Seychelles welcoming a significant number of Russian visitors.
"We [have had] over 30,000 so far, this year, and growing," Radegonde noted, adding that the Russian airline Aeroflot currently operates three flights per week, with plans for further increases to accommodate rising demand.
Speaking about cooperation with Russia, the minister stated that his country seeks to deepen maritime security cooperation with Russia.
"We would want to pursue the cooperation that we've had with Russia [...]. Being a maritime nation, Seychelles can help the continent in the work that it does in maritime security," Radegonde told Sputnik Africa, emphasizing the strategic role the Seychelles could play.
Moreover, securing African waters benefits the entire continent, especially in curbing issues like arms and drug trafficking, according to the official.
"Anything that we can do to stop, for example, arms trade, drugs trade reaching the continent, that would be for the better good of the continent," Radegonde explained, underscoring the Seychelles' commitment to using its unique position to support regional stability.