Salim Mathieu: My Vision for a Stronger Seychelles Presence in Scandinavia

There is a quiet yet powerful shift happening in global diplomacy, one that rewards small nations that know how to build deep, strategic relationships rather than relying on size or economic weight. Scandinavia is one of the regions where this shift is most visible. For Seychelles, the countries of Northern Europe represent far more than distant partners. They are models of governance, hubs of innovation, and societies that have mastered the delicate balance between prosperity, sustainability, and social cohesion. My own years moving between Seychelles and Europe, and especially my time in Denmark and Sweden, have shaped a clear vision of how Seychelles can cultivate a stronger, smarter, and more meaningful presence in this region.

Scandinavia is often romanticised for its quality of life, but its strengths are more pragmatic than poetic. These countries have built knowledge-based economies that consistently rank among the most competitive and innovative in the world. They have developed public sectors that function with remarkable trust, clarity, and discipline. They have preserved cultural identity while opening their societies to global talent. For Seychelles, a nation with a small population but immense potential, these models are not distant dreams. They are blueprints we can adapt and refine.

Our current relationship with Scandinavia is cordial, but it remains underdeveloped relative to what is possible. We have friendly diplomatic ties, occasional economic interactions, and a modest flow of visitors and investors. But what we lack is an intentional strategy, one that recognises Scandinavia as a region uniquely aligned with our long-term interests. Strengthening our presence requires more than embassy visits or isolated projects. It requires a philosophy of engagement that matches Seychelles’ ambitions with Nordic strengths.

In Sweden, for example, there is a growing curiosity about the Indian Ocean region. Sweden is expanding its global development agenda, its green technology exports, and its academic partnerships. Seychelles could position itself as a key interlocutor for regional stability, sustainable development, and climate diplomacy. A stronger Seychellois presence in Stockholm would also give our country access to Swedish innovations in digital governance, renewable energy, and maritime technology. These are the areas where Sweden excels globally and where Seychelles can benefit immediately.

Denmark offers a different but equally valuable area of alignment. Danish companies are leaders in ocean technologies, fisheries management, and low-carbon solutions. Danish universities have proven open to international collaborations in marine biology and climate resilience. And Denmark’s approach to social welfare and workforce development provides a compelling model for a small island nation working to raise its human capital. A more active Seychelles presence in Copenhagen could unlock partnerships that directly address our own challenges in food security, climate adaptation, and skills development.

Norway brings yet another layer of opportunity. Its sovereign wealth fund, its leadership in ocean governance, and its global reputation for principled diplomacy make it a natural partner for Seychelles. Norway understands the strategic value of oceans not just as a resource but as a global commons. It is one of the few countries capable of supporting small island states in shaping the future of blue economy governance. More meaningful engagement with Oslo could elevate Seychelles’ voice in international negotiations and strengthen our scientific and environmental institutions.

There is also an untapped cultural dimension that deserves attention. Seychellois culture resonates strongly with Scandinavians who often seek authentic, human-centered experiences. The warmth of our people, the richness of our Creole identity, and our traditions of coexistence hold quiet diplomatic power. Cultural diplomacy is not only about showcasing music and cuisine, but about building familiarity and trust between societies. Seychelles should expand its cultural footprint through exhibitions, academic exchanges, artistic collaborations, and diaspora engagement. These are the channels through which long-term relationships are nurtured.

A stronger presence in Scandinavia also supports something deeply personal to me: creating bridges for Seychellois talent. During my time living in Europe, I have met countless Seychellois students, professionals, and families who want to contribute to their homeland but lack structured avenues to do so. Scandinavia is home to one of the most educated and globally connected workforces. If Seychelles builds a more purposeful diplomatic presence, we can create pathways for our young people to learn, grow, and eventually bring their knowledge back home. This is part of my broader belief that the Seychellois diaspora is one of our most undervalued assets.

The question then becomes how to translate this vision into practice. It begins with recognizing that diplomacy is not only the work of embassies. It is the work of citizens, experts, entrepreneurs, and communities who project the values and capabilities of their country abroad. Seychelles needs a coordinated strategy that engages both government institutions and its global citizens. We need stronger academic linkages, targeted investment missions, and cultural programs that give Scandinavia a deeper understanding of who we are as a nation.

My personal ambition is to help build this bridge. I see Scandinavia not just as a partner, but as a region where Seychelles can redefine what it means to be a small state with global influence. It is a place where our environmental leadership is respected, where our democratic values resonate, and where our potential is truly understood. By expanding our presence, we can strengthen our international standing, attract new opportunities, and create a future where Seychelles is known not only for its beauty, but for its intellect, innovation, and diplomacy.

My years in Europe have shaped me as a Seychellois. They have expanded my appreciation for good governance, long-term planning, and the power of strong institutions. They have shown me that small nations can achieve extraordinary things when they form the right partnerships. And they have reinforced my belief that Seychelles must not settle for modest ambitions. We are capable of far more, but we must position ourselves in the world with intent.

A stronger Seychelles presence in Scandinavia is not merely an aspiration. It is a strategic necessity. It is an investment in our future, our talent, and our place in the world. And it is a journey I am committed to advancing, one partnership and one idea at a time.