Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his three-day visit to Seychelles with a packed schedule focused on strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two countries. During his visit, he held important bilateral talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, addressed the National Assembly, and was awarded the country’s highest civilian honour, the Guardian of the Blue Horizon.
The visit highlighted the deep friendship between India and Seychelles, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation in areas such as maritime security, sustainable development, connectivity, and regional peace.
PM Modi Holds Bilateral Talks with Seychelles President
On the second day of his historic visit, Prime Minister Modi met Seychelles President Patrick Herminie for high-level bilateral discussions. The leaders reviewed the progress of existing partnerships and explored new opportunities to strengthen cooperation across several sectors.
The talks focused on maritime security, defence collaboration, infrastructure development, capacity building, renewable energy, digital connectivity, healthcare, education, and climate resilience. Both leaders agreed that stronger cooperation would benefit not only India and Seychelles but also contribute to peace and stability across the Indian Ocean region.
The meeting reflected the growing strategic importance of Seychelles in India’s foreign policy, particularly under its vision of creating a safe, secure, and prosperous Indian Ocean.
Seychelles Confers Its Highest Honour on PM Modi
One of the most significant moments of the visit came when Seychelles honoured Prime Minister Modi with the Guardian of the Blue Horizon, the country’s highest civilian award.
The honour recognizes his efforts in strengthening India-Seychelles relations and his commitment to promoting sustainable development, regional security, and environmental protection in the Indian Ocean.
The award also reflects the trust and respect that Seychelles has for India’s role as a reliable development partner and a close maritime neighbour.
Also Read :
Yogi Adityanath Defends Ayodhya Probe, Says Action Has Begun After SIT Report
PM Modi Addresses the National Assembly
Prime Minister Modi addressed the National Assembly of Seychelles, where he described the relationship between India and Seychelles as one built on friendship, trust, and shared values.
He thanked the people and government of Seychelles for the prestigious honour and emphasized that the bond between the two countries has only become stronger over the years.
Speaking about the future, he said India remains committed to supporting Seychelles in its development journey and will continue working together on projects that improve connectivity, economic growth, and regional cooperation.
“The Indian Ocean Connects Us”
During his address, Prime Minister Modi recalled that Seychelles was the first Indian Ocean nation he visited after becoming Prime Minister in 2015. He said his belief in the importance of Seychelles has become even stronger over the last decade.
He noted that the Indian Ocean is not a barrier between the two countries but a bridge that connects them.
According to the Prime Minister, India and Seychelles do not meet as strangers but as old friends with a shared history and common aspirations. This message highlighted the close people-to-people relationship that has developed over centuries.
Shared History of More Than Two Centuries
India and Seychelles share historical ties dating back nearly 250 years. Over time, these connections have grown through trade, migration, culture, and mutual cooperation.
Today, thousands of people of Indian origin live in Seychelles and contribute significantly to the country’s social, economic, and cultural life.
Prime Minister Modi said this shared heritage forms a strong foundation for the future partnership between the two nations.
Cultural Bonds Continue to Bring People Together
The Prime Minister also highlighted the cultural similarities between India and Seychelles.
He pointed out that Indian flavours such as curry, cocoa, samosa, and chutney have become a familiar part of life in Seychelles. Festivals like Thai Pongal and celebrations during Navratri are also observed by many communities, reflecting the cultural diversity of the island nation.
He described this blend of traditions as the “Creole spirit,” which symbolizes harmony and strengthens the friendship between both countries.
Seychelles Remains a Key Maritime Partner
Seychelles holds a strategically important position in the Indian Ocean and remains one of India’s closest maritime partners.
The country plays a vital role in India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which focuses on maritime cooperation, regional security, economic development, and sustainable use of ocean resources.
India has consistently supported Seychelles through defence cooperation, training programmes, coastal surveillance systems, and infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing maritime security.
Both countries continue to work closely in tackling challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, climate change, and disaster management.
Also Read :
Bengal CAG Report Storm: Rs 2.29 Lakh Crore Under Scanner as TMC Faces Tough Questions
Focus on Sustainable Development and Regional Growth
Another important theme of Prime Minister Modi’s visit was sustainable development.
India reaffirmed its commitment to helping Seychelles build resilient infrastructure, promote renewable energy, strengthen digital public services, and improve healthcare and education.
The discussions also emphasized environmental conservation, especially the protection of marine ecosystems and responsible use of ocean resources.
These initiatives reflect the shared vision of both countries for balanced economic growth while protecting the environment for future generations.
0 Comments