Yokohama, Japan: Addressing TICAD member states at the Strengthening Peace and Stability Plenary Session this morning, President Danny Faure stressed on the cardinal importance of a peaceful and stable Africa for the further sustainable development of the African continent. 

“A prosperous Africa is reliant on peace and stability, as they are essential catalysts for sustainable development. The safety and security of our waters, the very lifeblood of our continent is without a doubt paramount to peace and stability on our continent. Whilst our waters offer immense potential it can equally be host to significant problems for our countries. Illicit maritime activities such as piracy, drug trafficking, human trafficking and Illegal Unreported and Unregulated fishing are posing existential threats to our states.”

“In this regard, Seychelles wishes to reiterate its appreciation to regional and international partners, and members of the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia (CGPCS) for their steadfast support. Since we are in TICAD, I wish to highlight in particular the valuable role of Japan which assists both bilaterally and multilaterally.” said President Faure.

In relation to further strengthening Maritime Security measures, President Faure also called on African nations to maintain a high-level of alertness and the continuous collective efforts to ensure the scourge of piracy is diminished.

 “We call for continued vigilance and respect of legal agreements as piracy has been contained but not totally defeated. As all states assume greater ownership of the security issues plaguing our waters, we welcome greater collaboration between Africa and international partners so as to achieve the following objectives, amongst others: A harmonization of national laws to guarantee legal finish in the prosecution of perpetrators of illicit maritime activities. Strict adherence to agreements and law enforcement mechanisms to combat Piracy and illicit maritime activities and the sharing of information and coordination of operations to combat maritime crimes and threats” stressed President Faure.