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Maldives and Seychelles Develop Closer Relations

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Maldives Promotion House – The Seychelles President, James Michel, welcomed the Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed at State House during the first official visit of President Nasheed to the Seychelles islands recently. President Nasheed will be attending the opening of the Indian Ocean Island Games this week, as well as other sporting events where the Maldivian teams will be playing.

“We are very happy to welcome you in our islands, to develop closer relations and consider the challenges of small islands states together, such as economic development, climate changes, fisheries, tourism, and piracy. We have many commonalities and we share the same ocean, let us see how we can share our experiences and make the most of our resources together,” President Michel said during the meeting.

The two presidents agreed that in order to encourage trade between Seychelles and the Maldives, a shipping line between the island states of the Indian Ocean needs to be developed and that with this economic cooperation and exchange will be enhanced.

“We must do more to improve our regional trade and share our expertise, especially as we are both focused on fisheries and tourism, and in this way develop sustainable solutions to regional challenges,” President Michel said.

The two Heads of State discussed the possibilities improving productivity of the artisanal fisheries industry in Seychelles, through cooperation with the Maldives. Tuna fishing and other fishing activities areas conducted by the majority of the Maldivian population, accounting for the livelihood of 40 percent of the workforce.

“Our fishing industry is worth about USD500 million a year. We want to see how we will be able to work with Seychelles on improving on its productivity,” President Nasheed said. “We will be able to cooperate and collaborate in the fishing industry. It was a privilege to meet the President and to discuss on our similar issues,” he added, following the meeting.

Piracy was also a topic of discussion, particularly ideas to improve patrolling of the Indian Ocean and collaborate in anti-piracy initiatives.

Following the meeting, President Michel and President Nasheed witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Fisheries Cooperation, as well as Protocol on Cooperation to Combat Piracy and Other Maritime Security Threats in the Indian Ocean. The documents were signed by the Seychelles Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Paul Adam and the Maldivian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Naseem.

The meeting at State House was attended by Seychelles Vice President Danny Faure, the Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Paul Adam, and the acting Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Jeanette d’Offay.

The Maldivian delegation included the Speaker of the Maldivian Parliament Abdullah Shahid, as well as three Maldivian Ministers, Minister for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Naseem, Minister of Human Resources Youth and Sports Hassan Latheef, and Minister of Tourism Arts and Culture Dr. Mariyam Zulfa.

Also present were the Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party, Moosa Manik, and Parliamentary Group Leader of the Maldivian Democratic Party, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

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Crossroads Maldives appoints Frederic Lebegue as General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel  Maldives

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Crossroads Maldives has announced the appointment of Mr. Frederic Lebegue as the  General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. With a distinguished career spanning over four  decades, Mr. Lebegue brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record of success  in the dynamic realm of the hospitality industry. 

Hailing from France, Mr. Lebegue is renowned for his value-driven leadership approach, and his  ability to foster development within diverse multicultural teams. His illustrious career includes  pivotal leadership roles at esteemed properties such as Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa,  Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa, and Harmonie Golf & Beach Estate in Mauritius, as  Cluster General Manager, Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa Fiji Islands, Double Tree by Hilton Fiji,  Sonaisali Island as Cluster General Manager, and Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, and Conrad Bali  in Indonesia, as General Manager. 

His invaluable expertise has also significantly contributed to the Maldives tourism industry,  notably during his tenure as General Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives (JA Manafaru Maldives), and as the Director of Operations at Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island. Mr. Lebegue’s  ability to orchestrate high-performing teams that resonate with the unique rhythm of Hard Rock  culture and the wealth of Maldives’ experience he brings as a seasoned senior hospitality  professional are truly remarkable. 

Mr. Lebegue has consistently demonstrated his expertise in driving commercial, financial, and  sustainable performance. His accomplishments extend beyond the conventional notes,  encompassing successful tenures at renowned properties, large-scale renovation projects,  innovative team development strategies, and the implementation of resonant corporate social  responsibility programs. Beyond the spotlight of his professional accolades, Mr. Lebegue is not  just a maestro in the hospitality industry; he is a dedicated advocate for community initiatives.  As a board member actively engaged with various foundations supporting education and  sustainability goals, he sets a standard that perfectly harmonizes with the ethos of the Hard  Rock brand as well as one of the core pillars of sustainability goals for the brand – Save the  Planet.  

“We are turning up the volume of excitement as Mr. Lebegue joins us at Hard Rock Hotel  Maldives. His extensive experience, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence  will be the driving force behind the continued success and growth of our Hard Rock Hotel  Maldives,” stated Mr. Michael Marshall, Chief Executive Officer, and Graham Kiy, Area Vice  President Hotel Operations EMEA – Hard Rock International. “We eagerly anticipate the positive  impact of this much-anticipated addition to our leadership team.” 

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives is gearing up for a new era of excellence under Mr. Lebegue’s  guidance, where his passion for the industry will be the main riff in delivering unparalleled  guest experiences. This appointment marks a key chord in the brand’s commitment to providing  a rockin’ stay in the heart of the Maldives.

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Gastronomy

Rashid Ahmadzada appointed as Executive Sous Chef at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

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Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Rashid Ahmadzada as the new Executive Sous Chef. With an impressive fifteen years of culinary expertise, Rashid brings a wealth of experience and a passion for creating exceptional dishes that reflect culinary excellence. 

Before joining, Rashid served as Chef De Cuisine at JW Marriott Absheron in Azerbaijan and held various positions in well-established properties across Kazakhstan and Montenegro, consistently delivering outstanding service throughout his career. He is also known for his leadership in the kitchen, embracing his culinary team to achieve collective goals as a team. He is committed to continuously improving through active participation in various training programs and exposures. His dedication to culinary arts aligns seamlessly with Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa’s promises to provide unparalleled dining experiences with Back to Basic twist boasting across seven dining outlets, In Villa Dining, the curated Destination Dining, as well as banquet and catering. 

Beyond the kitchen, Rashid enjoys playing chess, curling himself in good books, and maintaining his fitness through regular exercise. Despite being away from his family, he is excited to embark on this new chapter in the Maldives, captivated by the beauty of the beach and its sunny weather.

Rashid Ahmadzada will be working alongside Executive Chef Riccardo Pinna, and both chefs are enthusiastic about elevating the culinary offerings at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. Together, they aim to bring innovative and delectable dining experiences to guests, making the resort the preferred destination for not only the beauty of its island but also its culinary excellence.

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Gastronomy

Simon Joublanc takes the helm as Executive Chef at Baglioni Maldives

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Baglioni Maldives Luxury has announced the appointment of Simon Joublanc as its new Executive Chef. With a culinary career spanning over two decades and a diverse portfolio that includes renowned establishments such as Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin-Starred restaurants, Hilton, Marriott, InterContinental, and Six Senses, Joublanc brings a wealth of experience and innovation to his new role.

Originally hailing from France, Joublanc discovered his passion for the culinary arts early on. His journey began with formal education in Hospitality Administration and Management at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, setting the stage for a remarkable career trajectory.

Joublanc’s dedication to his craft became evident during his tenure as Sous Chef at Gordon Ramsay’s esteemed establishments, where he honed his skills and developed a keen understanding of the finer aspects of culinary excellence. His culinary journey has taken him across continents, leaving an indelible mark on some of the world’s most renowned luxury hospitality brands.

In his new role as Executive Chef at Baglioni Maldives, Joublanc will spearhead menu designs and introduce innovative concepts aimed at elevating the overall guest experience. His responsibilities extend to providing strategic direction for all culinary operations within the resort, ensuring a seamless fusion of flavors that resonate with the resort’s commitment to luxury and excellence.

Known for fostering high-performance teams and a commitment to unique food presentation, Joublanc brings a distinctive touch to every culinary endeavor. His previous role as Executive Chef at Six Senses in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia showcased his ability to seamlessly integrate local flavors with international culinary trends, creating a harmonious culinary experience for guests.

Baglioni Maldives is poised to benefit significantly from Joublanc’s culinary expertise, as the resort continues to position itself as a premier destination for luxury, relaxation, and gastronomic indulgence. Guests can anticipate an array of meticulously crafted dishes that reflect Joublanc’s dedication to culinary innovation and excellence.

The appointment of Simon Joublanc reflects Baglioni Maldives’ commitment to providing guests with an unparalleled dining experience, reaffirming its status as a top-tier luxury destination in the Maldives.

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