The Chairperson of the 2014 National Theme Committee, Minister Idith Alexander officially launched this years’ theme of "International Year of Small Island Developing States: Seychelles - A Determined Island Nation", today at the International Conference Centre of Seychelles.

The 2014 theme is derived from the United Nations declaration of 2014 as the International Year of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).Small Island Developing States like the Seychelles are presented with a number of significant challengessuch as climate change, piracy and effects of globalization.

Celebrating this year’s theme both at national and international level will attract several key benefits to our people and the country. It will highlight to the world the challenges that confront Small Island Developing States and gain the respect of other countries for our hard work and tenacity. On a local level, the marking of such theme will raise awareness of the power that we hold as a nation to overcome and to succeed. The theme will also bring the call for sustainable development and concepts of Blue Economy.

In her official speech, the Chairperson of the 2014 National Theme Committee spoke on the resilience of small islands states faced with the challenges and she stressed that it is important for small island states to work together as they are experiencing many of the same problems.

“As we pull our efforts together, we are stronger to negotiate with the industrial world on environmental issues such as carbon emission, all with the aim of protecting our environment for our future generation.’’

Minister Alexander added that this years’ theme concerns all of us so we have to be more determined in ensuring peace, love and unity in our homes, communities, work organizations and the society.

This was portrayed throughout the Launching Ceremony by various video presentations, songs and dance performances. During the ceremony, there was the unveiling of the National Theme logo which has been designed by local artist, Mr Aubrey Adeline.

The Ceremony, which was attended by President James Michel, Vice President Danny Faure, high government officials and members of the public from different sectors of the economy, ended with the national theme song entitled, “Nou Determinen”, written and performed by Mr Jean-Marc Volcy in collaboration with various artists both young and experienced.