December 3, 2010 -- President James Michel has conveyed a message of congratulations from Seychelles to Sheikh bin Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, on the occasion of the National Day of the UAE.

"Allow me, Your Highness,  to take this opportunity to express my satisfaction as regards the steady progress in the relations that Seychelles and the United Arab Emirates are nurturing on a bilateral level," said the message.

It continued: "The people of Seychelles greatly value the warm and friendly relations, as well as the deep understanding, that exist between our two countries. No doubt this will be maintained and enhanced in the future through a strong partnership for the good of our two countries and people.

"This partnership has already taken shape in various fields of great importance for Seychelles, including housing, defence, health and renewable energy.

"I would like to express my real appreciation for this consistent partnership, but also for our common will to strengthen it further."