Seychelles and Mauritius Convene for 14th Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation

Balaclava: Seychelles and Mauritius have convened the 14th Session of the Seychelles-Mauritius Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCC) in Balaclava, Mauritius, bringing together senior government officials and representatives from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies from both countries for three days of discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest. According to African Press Organization, the Seychelles delegation is led by Ambassador Ian Madeleine, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora. The Mauritian delegation was headed by Ambassador K. Jingree, Head of America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade of the Republic of Mauritius during the first session on 8 September 2026, on behalf of Mr. J. Bissoondoyal, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade of Mauritius. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Madeleine underscored the importance of the Joint Commission as a key mechanism for reviewing bilateral cooperation and charting the way forward across areas of mutual interest. He emphasized the close relationship between Seychelles and Mauritius, built on shared history and common values, and the mutual commitment to advancing the interests of their peoples. The continued engagement between their governments reflects the importance attached to this enduring partnership. Ambassador Khemraj Jingree, in his intervention, highlighted that the two countries' common interests and converging perspectives provide a strong foundation for further strengthening the bilateral partnership while also contributing to the broader objectives of regional cooperation. He emphasized the Joint Commission as an important institutional mechanism for taking stock of bilateral cooperation, assessing progress made, addressing challenges, and identifying new avenues for collaboration. Since the 13th Session, Seychelles and Mauritius have progressed in several areas, including bilateral legal instruments and technical cooperation in cybersecurity, education, investment promotion, arts and culture, and fire and rescue services, alongside continued collaboration through the Indian Ocean Commission. The three-day meeting will review the implementation of existing commitments, address outstanding matters, and identify practical measures and timelines to advance bilateral cooperation. The outcomes and recommendations of the Senior Officials Meeting will form the basis for consideration at the Ministerial Segment of the 14th Joint Commission, which will take place on 11 September 2026 following the conclusion of the Senior Officials deliberations. The Seychelles-Mauritius Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation remains a crucial platform for both countries to take stock of bilateral relations, strengthen existing partnerships, and identify new opportunities for cooperation.