Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began a three-day State visit to Seychelles, where he will attend the island nation's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour and hold wide-ranging talks with President Patrick Herminie to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in maritime security and the Indian Ocean region.
Modi, who last visited Seychelles in 2015, described the island nation as a "valued maritime neighbour" and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and its commitment to the Global South.
The Prime Minister said this year's visit was especially significant as it coincides with both Seychelles' 50th National Day celebrations and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
"Together, we will work to advance the progress of our peoples, and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region," Modi said before departing from New Delhi.
During the visit, Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Herminie and become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Seychelles National Assembly. A contingent of the Indian Armed Forces and two Indian Navy ships will also participate in the National Day celebrations, signalling the close defence partnership between the two countries.
Also read: PM Modi begins Seychelles tour, set to meet oldest living animal
Grand welcome by diaspora
Modi was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour on arrival at Seychelles International Airport, where he was received by President Herminie and senior government leaders. Hundreds of members of the Indian diaspora gathered to welcome him with traditional cultural performances, including a folk dance from Gujarat's Kutch region.
Sharing images on social media, Modi praised the diaspora for preserving India's rich cultural heritage overseas, calling it an "amazing cultural connect".
PM Modi meets world's oldest living land animal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Jonathan, the world's oldest living land animal, during a visit to the Seychelles National Botanical Garden as part of his three-day State visit to the island nation.
Estimated to have been born in 1832, Jonathan is about 194 years old and is recognised by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest living land animal. Despite his age, the Seychelles giant tortoise remains in good health, though he has limited eyesight due to cataracts and a diminished sense of smell.
Modi also joined Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in a tree plantation ceremony at the botanical garden, underlining the two countries' shared commitment to biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.
The Prime Minister is visiting Seychelles as the Guest of Honour for the country's National Day celebrations, which coincide with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles. His visit is expected to further strengthen cooperation in maritime security, the blue economy, climate resilience and capacity building.
Follow us
