Message from Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan

My name is Ryoichi Horie, Ambassador of Japan to Seychelles. I have worked in various missions in Europe, North America, Asia, Africa and Oceania, but among all, I have the longest relationship with Africa. My very first overseas posting was in Nigeria where I worked from 1982 to 1984, and my first Ambassadorial posting was in Sudan where I served from 2012 to 2014. I have also held various positions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters in Japan. During my tenure at the African Affairs Department, I had the privilege of visiting fifteen African countries. Right before coming here, I was Ambassador to Micronesia, an island country just like Seychelles, where I served for three years. Therefore, I feel a strong bond with Seychelles.

The friendly relations between Japan and Seychelles were established in 1976, immediately after Seychelles’ independence. Since then, our countries have cooperated closely especially in the field of maritime security and blue economy. Seychelles is also a popular destination for Japanese tourists because of its rich and beautiful nature and idyllic coastline.

The Embassy of Japan in Seychelles was established in January 2019, and as I am stationed in Kenya, Ambassador Makoto Tominaga is the Head of Mission. The Embassy of Japan will do its best to further promote our friendship with Seychelles, and I will devote all my energy towards strengthening our ties.