The Ambassador of France to Seychelles, H.E. Mrs. Olivia Berkeley-Christmann, paid a farewell courtesy call on the Chief Justice at the Palais de Justice on Tuesday, 2 September 2025, as she concludes her mandate in the country. The visit marked both a symbolic and substantive moment, celebrating three years of diplomatic service during which she fostered closer cooperation between France and Seychelles, particularly in the domains of maritime security and judicial collaboration.
The Chief Justice warmly welcomed Mrs. Berkeley-Christmann and expressed his appreciation for her unwavering support for Seychelles during her tenure. He highlighted the fruitful collaborations achieved under her leadership, especially in strengthening bilateral relations and advancing initiatives to combat maritime crime—an area of shared concern given Seychelles’ strategic location in the Indian Ocean.
A Legacy of Maritime Cooperation
France and Seychelles have long enjoyed close ties, not only through historical and cultural connections but also through their common responsibility in securing the western Indian Ocean region. During her mandate, Mrs. Berkeley-Christmann played a pivotal role in reinforcing these partnerships. Her tenure coincided with a period when maritime challenges, including piracy, drug trafficking, and illegal fishing, continued to demand coordinated international responses.
Through active engagement with local stakeholders, including the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and regional partners, the French Ambassador ensured that Seychelles received both technical and strategic support in confronting these challenges. The Chief Justice noted that this cooperation not only enhanced Seychelles’ maritime security but also contributed to the strengthening of judicial processes linked to maritime crime, ensuring that cases were handled with greater efficiency and international alignment.
Building Judicial and Institutional Links
Beyond maritime affairs, Mrs. Berkeley-Christmann’s ambassadorship also helped to solidify ties between French and Seychellois judicial institutions. Training programs, exchanges, and collaborative discussions facilitated under her tenure provided Seychellois officials with access to expertise and best practices from their French counterparts. Such efforts bolstered the capacity of the local justice system, particularly in complex transnational cases where international cooperation is essential.
The Chief Justice emphasised that these initiatives had tangible impacts, equipping Seychellois professionals with the knowledge and skills to better address emerging legal and security challenges. He thanked the Ambassador for her personal dedication and for championing initiatives that placed justice and the rule of law at the heart of Seychelles–France cooperation.
Ambassador Berkeley-Christmann’s Reflections
Appointed as France’s Ambassador to Seychelles in September 2022, Mrs. Berkeley-Christmann brought to her role a deep commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across multiple sectors. Reflecting on her three years of service, she expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to her by the Seychellois people and institutions, as well as pride in the shared accomplishments achieved during her tenure.
She noted that Seychelles’ role as a regional maritime hub made it a vital partner for France, particularly as both countries share an interest in maintaining peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean. She also highlighted the importance of continued cooperation, stressing that the relationships nurtured during her mandate should serve as a foundation for future engagement between the two nations.
Looking Forward
The courtesy call was not only a moment of farewell but also an opportunity to reaffirm the enduring partnership between Seychelles and France. Both sides recognised that the progress made in recent years—whether in maritime security, judicial cooperation, or broader diplomatic relations—serves as a strong platform for continued collaboration.
The Chief Justice expressed confidence that the next French Ambassador will build upon the solid groundwork laid by Mrs. Berkeley-Christmann, ensuring that the bilateral relationship continues to thrive. He reiterated Seychelles’ readiness to deepen cooperation with France, particularly in areas where shared values and mutual interests converge.
As Mrs. Berkeley-Christmann concludes her mission, her legacy remains firmly rooted in the strengthened bonds between the two nations. Her tenure will be remembered for its emphasis on security, justice, and partnership, as well as for her personal commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation.
Her farewell courtesy call at the Palais de Justice thus symbolised not an end, but a continuation of the robust Franco-Seychellois relationship—one that is poised to face the challenges and opportunities of the future with renewed vigour.
SOURCE: Judiciary
