(Seychelles News Agency) - Seychelles’ President James Michel is amongst nearly 50 African leaders heading to the US to attend the first US-Africa Summit hosted by the US President Barrack Obama taking place from August 04 to 06 in Washington.

In a press statement issued this afternoon, State House says Michel is travelling to the US today where he will meet with the US President and other African leaders to discuss investment, peace and regional stability as well as governance issues.

In a national statement issued to the US government, Michel says Seychelles commends the initiative to organise this first US-Africa summit in a bid to broaden cooperation between Africa and the US.

"The organization of this summit gives us the timely opportunity to move beyond the stale image of a relationship based on aid, crisis management and unequal trade, investment and development," said Michel in the statement.

The Seychellois Head of State added that the Indian Ocean island nation is heading to the meeting with a message of confidence.

"Confidence in our nation-Seychelles- Africa's smallest country whose development is anchored in people centred development, and in harnessing the vast potential of Africa's blue economy. Confidence in the United States of America, as an engaged partner in building a safer, more stable world where wealth and opportunity can be shared more evenly. And confidence in what Africa and the US can achieve together- if we join forces to work for security, freedom and prosperity in the world."

Michel is accompanied by the Seychelles’ Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Paul Adam.

"Investing in the Next Generation" is the theme chosen for the three day summit.

Washington is being seen as trying to seek ways to get US businesses interested in the opportunities in Africa.

Currently China is the main investor in Africa followed by Europe.