The British High Commissioner to Seychelles, HE Matthew Forbes, has paid a farewell call on Seychelles President James Michel at State House following a three-year tenure in Seychelles. President James Michel thanked High Commissioner Forbes for his efforts to increase the level of cooperation between Seychelles and United Kingdom and in particular his efforts to support Seychelles in the fight against piracy.

“We are very grateful for your assistance in gathering support for the anti-piracy efforts. The UK has been a key player in the coordinated effort to stop the spread of this criminal activity. When I visited the UK this year, we reaffirmed our bonds of friendship and our cooperation reached new heights. I wish you every success in your new posting,” said President Michel.

High Commissioner Forbes spoke warmly of his stay in Seychelles, particularly in the role he played in establishing projects to counter piracy in the Seychelles region both at the bilateral level as well as cooperation with the European Union.

“I came at a time when piracy was beginning. … We have made a lot of progress. I think we worked together very well with the Seychelles. The way that the Seychelles has stood up to piracy and the support that they have been given by the international community, has been quite remarkable. … Also, the international community coming together to fight piracy, all nations, all sorts of backgrounds and political beliefs fighting with a common cause, has been very interesting to watch and be part of. It has been a fantastic three years,” said Mr. Forbes.

High Commissioner Forbes said that relations between Seychelles and Britain are as “strong as they have ever been” and that he is confident that this will continue in the future.