The President of the Republic, Mr Danny Faure, received the Minister for State Administration for Market Regulation (SMAR) from the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Mr Zhang Mao, and his delegation for a courtesy call at State House this morning.

During the meeting, the President welcomed the Minister and his delegation and thanked them for making the time to visit Seychelles and enhance cooperation between the two countries.

“I would like to welcome you and your delegation to Seychelles, and express my sincere gratitude for making the journey to our islands to further cement China and Seychelles’ partnership in trade. I look forward to discussing the way forward for our two countries. I am also enthusiastic about the various MOUs which will be signed during this visit, between your institution and our Ministry of Finance, Trade, Investment and Economic Planning, and also our Fair-Trading Commission,” said President Faure.

Discussions were also held around areas for further cooperation, including tourism and investment, and ways in which to further consolidate bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.

On his part, Minister Mao commended Seychelles for its efforts in environment protection and reaffirmed China’s commitment to further

enhance exchanges and partnerships with Seychelles in the areas discussed.

The meeting this morning was also an opportunity for him to brief the President on the new structure and operation of the SMAR and ways to strengthen international cooperation through the institution.