SPGA and Chinese Embassy Unite for China’s Ecological Day

On Saturday, 15th August, the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA) welcomed H.E Ambassador Lin Nan of the People’s Republic of China and staff of the Chinese Embassy in Seychelles to the Morne Seychellois National Park for a tree planting and invasive species removal activity. The event, held to commemorate China’s National Ecological Day, brought together SPGA Forestry and National Park staff, representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources, and Special Advisor to the Minister, Mr. Denis Matatiken, in a lively demonstration of partnership and shared ecological responsibility. 

The morning’s programme saw the planting of 50 lantanier feuilles seedlings and the removal of invasive plants such as faux watouk by the participants. While modest in scale, the activity carried deep symbolic meaning and reflected the power of sustained cooperation and the belief that conservation thrives when nations, institutions, and communities work side by side. 

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SPGA Deputy CEO, Ms. Lya Docteur welcomed participants stressing that the day was more than symbolic. “Our activity today is a celebration of partnership, of shared values, and of the tangible results that collaboration can bring. Over the years, the Chinese Embassy has stood alongside SPGA in advancing conservation and sustainability, from the thoughtful donation of benches that enhance the visitor experience in the Botanical Garden, to the most recent installation of the photovoltaic systems on Curieuse Island. Planting 50 lantanier feuilles seedlings and removing invasives is a practical and meaningful act—one that restores balance to our ecosystems and demonstrates that conservation thrives when partners work side by side.”

Ambassador Lin Nan echoed this spirit of cooperation, linking the day’s efforts to the broader vision of ecological partnership and the 50th anniversary of China‑Seychelles diplomatic relations. She stated, “Today’s activity embodies our shared love for nature. Through planting endemic trees and removing invasive species, we jointly restore local ecosystems and consolidate the green friendship between our two countries. Guided by the principle that ‘lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,’ China continues to improve environmental governance, expand afforestation, strengthen biodiversity conservation, and accelerate green and low‑carbon transformation. Looking ahead, China stands ready to deepen ecological cooperation and people‑to‑people exchanges with Seychelles.” 

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Reinforcing the importance of sustained and practical conservation efforts, Special Advisor, Mr. Denis Matatiken highlighted, “What brings us together this morning is something quite simple but also very meaningful. We are going to plant trees and remove an invasive species, but in doing so, we are also making a small but practical contribution to protecting and restoring the natural environment. While planting 50 trees may appear to be a relatively small action, conservation is often built through the accumulation of practical efforts over time.” He further reminded participants that Seychelles’ natural environment is valued not only for its beauty but also for its direct connection to the country’s identity, economy, and way of life. “Forests and mountainous areas contribute to water security, soil protection and biodiversity, while healthy ecosystems also support fisheries, tourism and other livelihoods. When we protect nature, we are also protecting our economy, our communities and our future.”.

The event underscored that conservation is not a one‑off gesture but a continuous journey. One that depends on partnerships, persistence, and shared responsibility. Over the years, the bilateral relationship between Seychelles and China has broadened to encompass diverse areas such as environmental protection, climate resilience, marine conservation, and sustainable development. By commemorating China’s National Ecological Day in this hands‑on way, SPGA, the Chinese Embassy, and the Ministry of Environment reaffirmed their commitment to working together for a greener, healthier Seychelles.

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