More cultural exchanges in the offing

Ministers Pool and Ramdass signing the agreement

Seychelles and Mauritius' ministers for culture Thursday October 30 signed an agreement that paves the way for heightened cultural exchanges between the two countries during the period 2003 and 2006.

Among the items covered by the pact are reciprocal artistic and cultural performances by performers from each country, which are expected to be in Creole and also English and French.

It also provides for the exchange of information on cultural policies and seeks to promote technical seminars aimed at ensuring an appreciation of mutual interests.

It was Seychellois Minister Sylvette Pool of Local Government, Sports and Culture (MLGSC) who initialed the document with Mauritian Minister Motee Ramdass of Arts and Culture (AC).

The two ministers were flanked by principal secretary for Sports and Culture Patrick Nanty from MLGSC and Mr Navaivsamy Tiroumalechetty, who is Mauritius' principal events management officer in AC.

Welcoming the official nine-strong Mauritius delegation that is here for the ongoing Creole Festival, Minister Pool said that the agreement would help promote and preserve culture between the two countries, both of which speak Creole, English and French.

She noted that the last such formal cooperation started in 1989 and ended in 1995.

Mr Ramdass said that the renewal of the agreement would be instrumental in deepening the friendly relations existing between the two countries, and enhance cultural cooperation in areas identified in the agreement.

He expressed his belief that culture can play an important role and act as a catalyst for social and economic development.

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