Mauritius and Seychelles Will Share Wealth From Potential Hydrocarbon Finds

Geotechnical studies are set to commence on the Mascareignes Plateau following reports of potential hydrocarbon deposits within the 396,000-square-kilometre maritime zone co-managed by Mauritius and the Seychelles.

Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam confirmed the upcoming exploration during a parliamentary session, noting that the Seychelles has already initiated investigations suggesting the presence of oil or gas.

The two nations are currently finalising arrangements with British-based firm CGG Veridien to conduct advanced geotechnical and seismic surveys.

A Landmark in Diplomacy

The Joint Management Area (JMA) is the result of a unique diplomatic resolution to a 2010 territorial dispute.

Rather than engaging in a decade-long legal battle through the United Nations, Mr Ramgoolam and then-Seychellois President James Michel opted for bilateral cooperation.

“I decided to call the President… asking him to avoid this recourse to the United Nations, given that we are neighbouring countries and friends,” the Prime Minister stated.

This approach was later lauded by the UN Secretary-General as a “unique” example of international cooperation.

Sustainable Development Framework

While the prospect of resource extraction remains a priority, the Prime Minister emphasised that all activity must adhere to strict environmental safeguards.

The framework for the JMA is built upon several key international and local protocols:

• Environmental Protection: Adherence to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Nairobi Convention, and Sustainable Development Goal 14.
• Legal Infrastructure: The establishment of an Environment Code of Practice and an Offshore Petroleum Safety Order.
• Fiscal Oversight: A Joint Fiscal and Taxation Code to manage shared revenues.

Expanding Economic Frontiers

Beyond potential hydrocarbons, recent meetings of the joint commission highlighted progress in other sectors, including sustainable sea cucumber fishing, carbon credit potential, and the Monaco Indian Ocean Explorations.

The Prime Minister reiterated that the collaboration—recently reaffirmed during a state visit by Seychellois President Patrick Herminie—seeks a “sane management” of the plateau, balancing economic opportunity with ecological integrity.

Source: Le Mauricien