Victoria: Kicking off his State Visit to the archipelagic island, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the Indian community’s contribution towards Seychelles’ progress.
“The Indian community in Seychelles accorded a very warm welcome this evening. Their deep affection for India and enduring contribution to Seychelles’ progress are truly admirable. The Indian diaspora has long served as a vibrant bridge between our two nations, strengthening people-to-people ties and enriching our shared journey,” PM Modi wrote on X.
PM Modi arrived in Seychelles on Saturday afternoon to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country’s National Day as the Guest of Honour and further strengthen the bilateral cooperation.
On arrival, following the playing of the national anthems of both countries, PM Modi and President Patrick Herminie received the military salute during the Guard of Honour inspection.
The Prime Minister also briefly enjoyed a vibrant cultural welcome, witnessing a traditional Seychellois ‘moutya’ performance by a local group of dancers, followed by a performance of ‘Nrutya’, an authentic folk dance from Kutch, , presented in his honour.
The folk performance was delivered by 18 members of the Seychellois Indian diaspora, originally from Kutch in Gujarat, celebrating cultural heritage and the spirit of Independence.
This marks PM Modi’s second State Visit to Seychelles. Earlier this year, President Herminie undertook a State Visit to India.
“India remains one of Seychelles’ closest and most valued development partners, supporting numerous infrastructure, healthcare, education and community development initiatives while working closely with Seychelles to promote peace, security and stability in the Indian Ocean region,” the Office of the President of Seychelles stated ahead of PM Modi’s arrival.
According to Seychelles President, PM Modi’s visit reflects the longstanding friendship and enduring partnership between both countries which have enjoyed diplomatic relations since Seychelles attained Independence in 1976.
During the visit, PM Modi and President Herminie are expected to hold bilateral discussions aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the two countries. The Prime Minister will also participate in official engagements commemorating Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee Independence celebrations.
Over the past five decades, the two countries have continued to strengthen cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including maritime security, defence, healthcare, education, capacity building, climate resilience, sustainable development and the blue economy.
(IANS)
