December 13, 2010 -- Five patrol boats promised to the Seychelles Coastguard by His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, President of the United Arab Emirates, have arrived in Port Victoria.

The vessels, two of which are 30 metres long, and three of seven metres, are a boost to Seychelles' capacity in the fight against piracy and other maritime threats.

The Chief of Defence Forces, Brigadier Leopold Payet and acting commander of the Seychelles Coastguard, Lieutenant Colonel Georges Adeline, with the arrival of the vessels aboard a cargo ship yesterday.

A new coastguard base and a modern radar system have also been promised by HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed.

Lieutenant-Colonel Adeline said the vessels were well-equipped with advanced modern radar equipment and will definitely help in patrolling our exclusive economic zone.

He said the gifts represent the good relations that exist between President James Michel and Sheikh Khalifa.   

Colonel Saeed Alzaabi from the UAE Royal Navy and his 28 crew members are in Port Victoria for one month to train Seychellois counterparts before the handing over of the vessels.