Seychelles One-China policy remains unchanged, the government has said, as it explains a recent aviation decision involving a requested flight clearance.
In a communiqué issued on 25 April, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora said the country has maintained its position since establishing diplomatic relations in 1976.
The statement said:
“Since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 30 June 1976, the Republic of Seychelles has consistently maintained its One-China Policy, a position that has remained unchanged across successive governments.”
The ministry linked this position to the international framework set by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 of 1971. That resolution recognises the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China within the UN system.
As a result, Seychelles does not recognise Taiwan as a state and does not maintain diplomatic relations with it. The communiqué said this approach aligns with the practice of many UN member states.
The government also addressed aviation procedures. It said decisions on overflight and landing clearance fall under national sovereignty, as outlined in the Chicago Convention.
The ministry stated:
“Each State exercises full sovereignty over the airspace above its territory. This includes the right to regulate and authorise requests for overflight and landing clearance in accordance with national law, foreign policy considerations, and applicable international obligations.”
It said the recent refusal of clearance followed established procedures governing airspace use. The decision, it added, is consistent with standard international aviation practice.
Furthermore, the communiqué noted that Seychelles does not accord official status to representatives linked to Taiwan. Requests involving such aircraft are assessed within the country’s foreign policy framework and aviation regulations.
The government said the decision reflects its long-standing foreign policy and its sovereign rights under international law.