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Diplomacy in Action

U.S. Relations With Seychelles


Bureau of African Affairs
Fact Sheet
February 13, 2013

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More information about Seychelles is available on the Seychelles Page and from other Department of State publications and other sources listed at the end of this fact sheet.

 

U.S.-SEYCHELLES RELATIONS

The United States established diplomatic relations with Seychelles in 1976, following Seychelles independence from the United Kingdom. The United States and Seychelles enjoy a history of partnership and cooperation based on shared priorities. In the Indian Ocean region, the two countries work together to fight piracy and terrorism, strengthen economies, and promote maritime security.

Seychelles tourism- and fishing-based economy is directly affected by piracy in the region. The country has entered into several agreements with international partners, including the United States, to protect its territory and economy.

U.S. Assistance to Seychelles

U.S. foreign assistance to Seychelles focuses on maritime security, including training and equipment for Seychelles coast guard, military, and police. The U.S. also provides small grants for community service projects.

Bilateral Economic Relations

The United States and Seychelles have a small amount of bilateral trade. Seychelles is eligible for preferential trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act.

Seychelles Membership in International Organizations

Seychelles and the United States belong to several of the same international organizations, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, and World Bank. Seychelles is an observer to the World Trade Organization.

Bilateral Representation

The U.S. Ambassador to Seychelles is resident in Mauritius. The U.S. Ambassador to Seychelles is Shari Villarosa. Other principal embassy officials are listed in the Department's Key Officers List.

Seychelles has no embassy in Washington, DC, but has a permanent representative to the United Nations in New York who also is accredited as Ambassador to the United States.

Additional information about Seychelles is available from the Department of State and other sources, some of which are listed here:

Department of State Seychelles Page
Department of State Key Officers List
CIA World Factbook Seychelles Page
U.S. Embassy: Mauritius (Virtual Presence Post - Seychelles)
History of U.S. Relations With Seychelles
Human Rights Reports
International Religious Freedom Reports
Trafficking in Persons Reports
Narcotics Control Reports
U.S. Census Bureau Foreign Trade Statistics
Library of Congress Country Studies
Travel and Business Information



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