June 9, 2010 -- During his announcement last night of a new Cabinet of Ministers, President James Michel thanked Vice-President Joseph Belmont, who is retiring after 40 years of service, and Minister Marie-Pierre Lloyd, who is leaving Government, for their hard work and dedication to their country.
 
President Michel described Vice-President Belmont as an honest man, a leader who  is courageous and sincere towards his country.
 
" On behalf of the people of Seychelles and on my own part, I express our appreciation for his contribution to the development of Seychelles. It is through the devotion and passion of people like Mr. Belmont that we have been able to get to where we are today. It is also through his spirit of determination and hard work that we as a people will continue this effort to bring our country even further forward, even higher," said President Michel.
 
President Michel also thanked Minister Marie-Pierre Lloyd for her contribution to the country.
 
" Minister Lloyd showed a great amount of compassion and determination in her role as Minister. Her contribution has been greatly appreciated by our people. In recognition of her capacity as a pioneer in the social sector, as well as the Seychelles' position as a world example of the emancipation of women, I will propose the nomination of Mrs. Lloyd as a Itinerant Ambassador for Women and Children. "