As part of the visit to the islands of Praslin and La Digue, the Cuban Ambassador, Martha Hernandez and the Minister Counsellor, Tomas Mendez, visited the Vallé de Mai Nature Reserve. This reserve was declared a natural heritage of humanity by UNESCO in 1983, for the priceless value of its flora and fauna, for having the largest plantations of the Coco de Mer, an endemic species of the archipelago, which produces the largest seed in the world that can exceed 20 kg in weight, a unique tree which is the pride and symbol of Seychelles.
This reserve of approximately 19.5 hectares and more than 800 female trees and 700 male trees is a natural treasure which is jealously preserved by the Seychellois population and authorities. The natural reserve of Fond Ferdinand is another of the largest natural reserves of the country with 48 hectares and a similar number of trees, which we hope one day can also be declared natural heritage by UNESCO.
On La Digue Island, the third most important of the archipelago, in an environment of unique natural beauty, is the Art Gallery of the renowned Seychellois artist, George Camille, who exhibits beautiful paintings and handicrafts, which express with great energy the Creole culture of the nation through the strength of its colors, light and the intensity of his drawings.
The Cuban Embassy is grateful for the support offered by the Seychelles National Institute of Culture, Heritage and the Arts, especially to Mrs. Sophia Rosalie, official of its international cooperation section; to Mrs. Therese Jeremie, official of the Institute and to Mr. Marc Jean Baptiste, specialist and guide of the Vallé de Mai and the natural reserve of Fond Ferdinad.
Likewise, we would like to thank our friend and renowned Seychellense artist, George Camille, and his assistant Sarita, for giving us the opportunity to visit his Art Gallery in La Digue, and appreciate the beauty and artistic value of his works. We hope to be able to receive him one day in Cuba to exhibit his beautiful Seychellense art work.
(Embacuba Seychelles)