Chinese Vice President Han Zheng concludes his African tour in the Seychelles, following stops in Kenya and South Africa, with a two-day official visit marking half a century of diplomatic relations between China and the archipelago, established in 1976 after the independence of the Seychelles.
Han Zheng was received by President Patrick Herminie and held talks with Vice President Sebastien Pillay, highlighting the strengthening of bilateral ties in trade, infrastructure, digital innovation and the blue economy.
On the ground, he inaugurated a housing project financed by China Aid in Béolière and Cap Bonm Zan, providing 140 units to meet growing residential demand. He also visited SBC House, a new television station in Seychelles supported by China.
For former Seychellois Vice-President Vincent Meriton, this anniversary offers an opportunity to "take stock of our achievements in education, health, infrastructure, the economy, culture and the environment".
Trade between the two countries remains dynamic, reaching $84 million in 2024, while cooperation is moving towards a sustainable maritime economy, with joint initiatives on fishing and ocean protection.
This visit concludes a strategic African tour and illustrates the desire of both nations to extend a partnership of trust, combining economic development and preservation of natural resources.
