UNCT Retreat explores coordinated support for Mauritius and Seychelles

Strengthening coordinated United Nations (UN) action and identifying practical ways to support the priorities of Mauritius and Seychelles were the focus of the UN Country Team (UNCT) Retreat, which opened today at the Maritim Resort & Spa, Balaclava. The theme of the event is “Acting as One: Driving Collective Impact in Mauritius and Seychelles”.

The retreat, being held from 30 September to 2 October 2026, brings together Heads of UN Agencies and senior representatives, both locally and internationally to explore opportunities for joint programmes, financial support, technical assistance, capacity building, digital transformation and strategic partnerships.

Addressing participants at the UN retreat, the Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning, Dr (Mrs) Jyoti Jeetun, highlighted Mauritius’ Vision 2050 as a key framework for long-term development, with a focus on economic transformation, skills development, technology, the green transition, resilience and inclusive growth.

The Minister also stressed the need for greater recognition of the vulnerabilities faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including exposure to climate change, external economic shocks and supply disruptions. She called for closer alignment between policy, financing and implementation, while advocating innovative financing mechanisms that take into account the specific vulnerabilities of Mauritius.

Speaking via videoconference, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora of Seychelles, Mr Barry Faure, identified sustainable ocean economy development, marine conservation, economic resilience and inclusive digital transformation, including the responsible use of artificial intelligence, as key areas requiring continued support from the United Nations.

Also intervening, the Junior Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr Hambyrajen Narsinghen, called for stronger collective UN action to support Mauritius and Seychelles as SIDS, emphasising the importance of greater cooperation and coordination among development partners.

The Deputy Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, Mrs Mama Keita, shared insights into opportunities for Mauritius and Seychelles to position themselves within Africa’s evolving economic and development landscape.

The UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms Lisa Simrique Singh, advocated a more integrated UN response to support the two island states in addressing climate change and other vulnerabilities. She highlighted the importance of stronger joint action among UN agencies and leveraging their expertise to advance the inclusive, resilient and sustainable development of Mauritius and Seychelles.

30 September 2026

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Topics: Foreign Affairs, Bilateral cooperation, Financial Services, Climate Change