Seychelles celebrated its National Day at Expo 2025 Osaka with a vibrant programme of cultural performances, business networking, and a showcase of its national pavilion under the Expo theme “A People’s Journey: Empowering Lives through Sustainable Tourism, Culture, Aquaculture and Investment”.
The official delegation was led by Principal Minister Jean-François Ferrari, responsible for Fisheries and the Blue Economy, joined by Ambassador Anne Lafortune, Seychelles’ accredited Ambassador to Japan, alongside Principal Secretaries Mr. Roy Clarisse for Fisheries and the Blue Economy, Mrs. Sherin Francis for Tourism, Mrs. Cecile Kalebi for the Seychelles National Institute of Culture, Heritage and Arts, and Mr. Cyril Bonnelame, the CEO of the Islands Development Company. Their presence underscored the cross-sectoral importance of Seychelles’ participation.
In his address, Minister Ferrari highlighted Seychelles’ dual identity as a small island nation and a global sustainability leader:
“As island nations and stewards of the ocean, Seychelles and Japan share a deep respect for the sea not only as a source of livelihood, but also as a foundation for tourism and culture, and as a legacy we must protect for future generations. It is fitting that, here in Japan, we showcase our Blue Economy — including fisheries, aquaculture, and sustainable tourism — and celebrate this shared commitment to the ocean and nature.”
The morning celebrations featured patriotic songs by the Plaisance Primary School Boys Choir and a dynamic performance by Band Lansiv. Traditional Seychellois art forms such as Romans, Kanmtole, Sega, and the UNESCO-recognized Moutya were showcased, reflecting Seychelles’ unique blend of African, European, Asian, and Creole influences.
Following the cultural programme, Seychelles hosted a Networking Business Event under the theme “Sailing the Blue Economy towards Sustainable Tourism and Investment”. Senior officials presented Seychelles as an investor-friendly destination with strong opportunities in fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, and renewable energy.
Minister Ferrari emphasized the central role of aquaculture:
“Our pristine waters provide ideal conditions for farming high-quality seafood with minimal environmental impact. With a strong legal framework and investment in skills and infrastructure, aquaculture represents a key opportunity for sustainable growth and complements our broader vision of linking fisheries, tourism, and conservation.”
Delegates from the Seychelles Fishing Authority, Seychelles Investment Bureau, and Tourism Seychelles engaged in one-to-one meetings with Japanese stakeholders to foster partnerships and explore avenues for collaboration.
At the Seychelles Pavilion, visitors experienced interactive zones on sustainable tourism, marine conservation, renewable energy, and the Blue Economy. Highlights included exhibits of the Vallée de Mai and Aldabra Atoll, an interactive pledge wall, and recycled fishing-net bracelets symbolizing Seychelles’ commitment to circular economy innovation.
The celebration also marked nearly fifty years of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and Japan. Minister Ferrari reaffirmed the partnership, noting Japan’s leadership in marine science, technology, and sustainability as a foundation for deepened collaboration.
About Seychelles at Expo 2025 Osaka
The Seychelles Pavilion presents the nation as a place where nature, culture, and sustainability are deeply interconnected. It invites Japan and the world to partner with Seychelles in shaping a sustainable ocean future, grounded in respect for both people and the planet.
