First Sichuan Airlines Flight Connects Seychelles and China, Boosting Tourism and Business

The inaugural Sichuan Airlines flight from Chengdu, China, landed in Seychelles on November 20, 2024, marking a significant milestone for tourism and business relations. The flight carried 264 passengers, including officials and businessmen attending a trade fair. Key government officials welcomed them at the airport, emphasizing the importance of evolving ties with China and the potential for future regular flights.

On November 20, 2024, the inaugural direct charter flight of Sichuan Airlines from Chengdu, China, successfully landed at Seychelles International Airport in Pointe Larue at 6:47 am, carrying a total of 264 passengers. Among those on board were a delegation of high-ranking officials from Chengdu, including the Deputy Mayor, and a group of Chinese businessmen who are set to attend a trade fair organized by the Enterprise Seychelles Agency (ESA) from November 21 through 23 at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Hotel. The flight also included numerous tourists, highlighting the importance of this new route for both business and leisure travel.

Upon arrival, the passengers were warmly welcomed by key dignitaries, including the Minister for Tourism and Foreign Affairs, Sylvestre Radegonde, and the Minister for Investment, Entrepreneurship and Industry, Devika Vidot. Minister Radegonde noted the significance of this flight, emphasizing that it was the first direct link from China to Seychelles in nearly six years. He stated that this achievement followed extensive negotiations and signified a strengthened commitment to enhancing ties between Seychelles and China.

Minister Vidot underscored the presence of 34 Chinese businessmen participating in the trade fair, asserting that China’s advanced development in innovation and technology would benefit Seychellois enterprises. „We are making it easier for them; we have removed the language and geographical barrier so they are able to ask questions and learn more about the processes,” noted Minister Vidot. The trade fair aims to bridge gaps between Seychellois entrepreneurs and Chinese suppliers, fostering future collaborations. ESA has reported a strong interest from exhibitors in showcasing agricultural equipment among other sectors, including manufacturing and tourism.

The establishment of a direct flight route from Chengdu to Seychelles marks a significant development in transportation links between China and the Seychelles archipelago. This new service not only facilitates travel for tourists but also opens up vital opportunities for business exchange. The upcoming trade fair, organized by the Enterprise Seychelles Agency, is poised to enhance economic relationships by showcasing the local business environment to Chinese entrepreneurs. The previous absence of direct flights for nearly six years highlights the rarity and importance of this return, which is being pursued with optimism for future regular services.

In conclusion, the first Sichuan Airlines flight to Seychelles represents a pivotal development for tourism and business relations between China and Seychelles. With enthusiastic participation from Chinese businessmen in the upcoming trade fair and strong support from governmental officials, this initiative seeks to cultivate closer ties and stimulate economic growth. Future discussions on regular flight operations are anticipated based on the response from passengers and businesses alike.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com