Seychelles was represented at the Annual General Meeting of
the Vanilla Islands Association held in Moroni, Union of the Comoros, by Mrs.
Bernadette Willemin, Special Advisor for Tourism.
The meeting symbolized the official handing over of the
presidency of the Association to the Union of Comoros. The handing-over
ceremony attracted representations from all the Union's island members. On
Wednesday, 4 February 2026, Comoros officially took over the presidency of the
Association from the Republic of Mauritius, which has been under the presidency
of Mr. Sydney Pierre, Minister Delegate for Tourism.
She, while underscoring the importance of cooperation
between regions, reiterated her country's commitment to enhancing its
international network through tourism. She cited that cooperation between
island nations was vital towards maintaining their presence on a global scene.
“As small island destinations that rely heavily on tourism
as an economic driver, it remains imperative that we remain visible and
relevant in the global marketplace. We believe the Vanilla Islands concept
presents an attractive platform to promote the diversity and authenticity of
our tourism products.”
Formed in October 2013, the Vanilla Islands Association
comprises some of the top tourism hubs within the Indian Ocean, namely,
Seychelles, Mauritius, Mayotte, La Reunion, Madagascar, and Comor. Currently,
under the leadership of Mr. Pascal Viroleau from La Reunion, this association
acts as a gateway to promote the region as a whole on the global scene.
This change in leadership also cements the integration of the
island members in their cooperation and demonstrates their joint commitment to
initiatives that strengthen the visibility and competitiveness of the Indian
Ocean as a unified tourism product.
During this assembly, members considered the Association's financial
accounts for 2024, heard from national delegations, considered opportunities
and challenges for tourism in their regions, and identified strategic
priorities for 2026-2028. Key administration items were approved, which
included the Purchasing Guide, renewal of signing authority for the Director,
and finalization of the Association's Bureau for 2026-2027.
