The National Assembly of Seychelles held the Laying of Foundation Stone and Signing of Contract Ceremony for the new National Assembly building on Thursday 20th March, 2008.

The Ceremony was held at Ile du Port, the site of the new National Assembly Building and in his Speech the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Dr. Patrick Herminie mentioned that for the first time in the history of Seychelles, the Legislative will have its own building. The Speaker also said that ‘we are indeed very happy that today’s event falls in the year with the theme “our constitution, the voice of our nation.” A year of paramount importance for our country and for the institutions of the State.’

The Speech by the Speaker of the National Assembly was preceded by that of the Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency, Mr. Geng Wenbing. The Ambassador stressed on the importance of the bilateral relations that exists between our two countries and also mentioned the importance of exchanges to strengthen such relations.

After the Speeches by the Speaker and the Ambassador, the Contract was signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Mrs. Marie Nella Azemia and the President of the China Shenyang Corporation, Mrs. Tang Lezhen. The Signing was witnessed by the Speaker, and the Chinese Ambassador. The Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chinese Ambassador then went on to perform the Laying of the Foundation Stone Ceremony.

Amongst the distinguished guests at the Ceremony was the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. James Michel, the Vice President, Mr. Joseph Belmont, former Speaker, Hon. Francis McGregor, Members of the National Assembly and Cabinet Ministers.