In his accompanying note to President Tallis, Ambassador Seam stressed the EU's long standing relation and friendship with Vanuatu and its people, based on a legacy of common values, cooperation, and constructive economic and trade relations.

''Vanuatu is a key partner for the EU in the Pacific. Our close friendship with Vanuatu has helped solidify our shared interests, values, security and prosperity. The EU is and will remain a friend of Vanuatu on climate change, resilience, biodiversity, ocean, human rights and peace and security.'' said Ambassador Seam.

''We are seeking an increasingly close relationship with Vanuatu going beyond development co-operation, to gradual integration in the global economy and deepening political dialogue. I look forward to working with Vanuatu over the next four years to deepen our relationship further. In addition, I will also focus on strengthening the bilateral and regional partnerships at all levels.'' added Ambassador Seam.

During his short stay in Vanuatu, Ambassador paid courtesy calls to the Prime Minister, Hon. Charlot Tabimasmas, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Jotham Napat, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade and Minister of International Affairs, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu and other senior members of the government.

(In the picture above: The new Ambassador of the European Union (EU) for the Pacific, His Excellency, Sujiro Seam (left) with the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Hon. Charlot Tabimasmas)

Ambassador Seam represents the Presidents of the European Commission and the European Council, under the authority of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Ambassador Seam is a French citizen.  He is married to Jane Seam and they have moved to Fiji where they are based with their two children.

(In the picture above: The new Ambassador of the European Union (EU) for the Pacific, His Excellency, Sujiro Seam (right) with Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade and Minister of International Affairs, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu)

''I thank the Government and the people of Vanuatu for their hospitality on the occasion of the presentation of my letters of credence as Ambassador of the EU to Vanuatu.''

ENDS.

For further information, contact; Mohammed Nazeem KASIM, EU Press & Information Officer, Suva, Fiji Tel: +679 3313-633 Email: Mohammed-Nazeem.KASIM@eeas.europa.eu or delegation-fiji@eeas.europa.eu