Seychelles President James Alix Michel has extended the congratulations of the people and government of Seychelles to the newly-elected President of the Russian Federation, Mr. Vladimir Putin, and has expressed his commitment to the ongoing cooperation between the two states, particularly in the fight against piracy.

“The relations between our two nations have always been good, and it is my hope that it will continue to be so in the future.

“As a Small Island State, the security of the Indian Ocean has become a priority due to the threat of piracy. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the government of the Russian Federation for all the support given on this,” said President Michel.

The President also extended his thanks for the participation of the Russian anti-submarine warship currently in Port Victoria in the 2012 International Carnival of Victoria.