In a first, PM Modi attends Seychelles National Day revelry as Guest of Honour
Victoria, June 29
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday attended the National Day celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Independence of Seychelles.
The Ministry of External Affairs said PM Modi attended the celebrations as the Guest of Honour, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to be accorded this honour.
In a post on X, Spokesperson of the MEA, Randhir Jaiswal said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the National Day celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Independence of Seychelles as the Guest of Honour, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to be accorded this honour. An Indian marching contingent comprising Navy and Army teams participated in the parade. An Indian Naval band also formed part of the Indian marching unit, underlining the close and special India-Seychelles partnership. In a special gesture, INS Tarkash and INS Ikshak were docked at Port Victoria, highlighting India's longstanding friendship with Seychelles. PM conveyed India's warm wishes to the people of Seychelles on this historic occasion."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie held official talks on Sunday amid the ongoing state visit of PM Modi to the country. The talks covered the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with the leaders agreeing to further strengthen cooperation across key fronts like health, education and capacity building.
The Ministry of External Affairs, in an official statement, noted that the leaders discussed strengthening ties across health, education, capacity building, digital transformation, sustainable development, social infrastructure, renewable energy, maritime security and defence.
They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including challenges in the Indian Ocean region, such as illegal fishing, drug trafficking and piracy. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the progress made in the implementation of projects and initiatives under the Special Economic Package announced by India. Prime Minister reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting the development priorities of Seychelles and to further deepen the close and enduring partnership between the two countries.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good diplomatic move, but I hope the focus isn't just on photo-ops and parades. The talks about piracy, drug trafficking, and illegal fishing in the Indian Ocean are critical — these affect our fishermen and security directly. Let's see concrete outcomes, not just statements.
As a proud Indian, seeing our Navy band and marching contingent at their national day fills me with immense pride. Seychelles is a key partner in the Indian Ocean — this is smart diplomacy at its best. Kudos to PM Modi for strengthening our maritime ties! 🇮🇳⚓
Nice gesture, but I wonder about the cost of such trips for taxpayers. And while the military cooperation is highlighted, what about more people-to-people ties? Tourism and education exchanges would benefit common Indians more. Still, it's good to see India being recognised globally.
Historic indeed! 🇮🇳 The Special Economic Package for Seychelles shows we are a responsible neighbour. But I wish the article mentioned more about concrete infrastructure projects — schools, hospitals, digital connectivity. That's what makes a lasting impact, not just ceremonial visits.
Great to see India's soft power in action. The marching contingent and naval band are pure class. As a student of international relations, I see this as crucial for countering Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean. Well played, MEA!
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