President James Michel travels to Australia next week to undertake a state visit at the invitation of the Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Mrs. Quentin Bryce.

This visit is expected to further strengthen relations between the two countries, and is the first official visit of the President to Australia, following the state visit of Governor-General Bryce to Seychelles in April 2009.

The President is scheduled to meet the Governor General, as well as engage in bilateral discussions with the Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, and other members of the Australian Government.

Discussions are expected focus on the sustainable development, climate change, renewable energy, and marine research. The state visit is also the opportunity to enhance the tourism, education and trade ties between the two countries.

"Australia is an important partner in education and environment cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. We have been working closely to develop these key areas as we strive to implementing sustainable development models," said President Michel.

The President will be accompanied by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jean-Paul Adam, the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Alain St. Ange, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Seychelles, Rolph Payet, and the Seychelles High Commissioner to India, Dick Esparon, who is accredited to Australia.

Prior to his state visit to Australia, the President and his family will be undertaking a private visit to Singapore.