PM Modi feeds world's oldest living land animal 'Jonathan' during Seychelles visit
Victoria, June 27
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Saturday toured the National Botanical Garden of Seychelles in Victoria, shortly after the Prime Minister commenced his official State Visit to the archipelagic nation.
During the tour of the sanctuary, Prime Minister Modi was seen enthusiastically feeding large turtles, including the famed 194-year-old Jonathan, recognised as the world's oldest living land animal.
The two leaders also planted a commemorative sapling within the premises and interacted closely with the conservatory staff, who briefed the visiting dignitaries on the unique flora and fauna of the sanctuary.
The Prime Minister arrived in the capital city on Saturday afternoon on a three-day visit to the island country. In a boost to bilateral cooperation, PM Modi will be the Guest of Honour at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country's National Day, marking 50 years since Seychelles got independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.
In a special gesture reflecting the deep diplomatic bonds between the two democracies, President Patrick Herminie, alongside several top cabinet ministers and senior officials, personally received Prime Minister Modi at the tarmac.
The arrival reception featured vibrant cultural performances, including a traditional dance from the Kutch region of Gujarat. Reflecting on the cultural presentation, the Prime Minister took to social media platform X to post, "Amazing cultural connect! The welcome at the airport in Seychelles included a dance from Kutch. The manner in which our diaspora has preserved and celebrated culture from different parts of India is appreciable."
Prime Minister Modi also uploaded glimpses of the enthusiastic reception on X, expressing his gratitude to the Indian diaspora for their immense warmth and affection.
Acknowledging the official welcome immediately after touchdown, the Prime Minister shared his optimism for the trip, posting on X, "Landed in Seychelles. Deeply appreciate the warm welcome extended at the airport by Dr. Patrick Herminie. Seychelles is a valued maritime partner and a close friend in the Indian Ocean. Looking forward to a productive visit aimed at further strengthening our longstanding ties and enhancing cooperation for the benefit of the people of our nations."
As the dignitaries departed the airport transit area for the National Botanical Garden, Prime Minister Modi posted a photograph capturing a candid, friendly moment between the two leaders, writing on X, "On the way to the Seychelles National Botanical Garden with President Dr. Patrick Herminie."
— ANI
Reader Comments
The way PM Modi interacts with world leaders and showcases India's soft power is commendable. Jonathan the tortoise is a living legend - born before India's independence, and now meeting our PM! It's these small moments that build lasting bonds. The diaspora performing Kutch dance touched my heart. ❤️
Good to see India's outreach in the Indian Ocean region. Seychelles is a crucial partner for our maritime security. But honestly, I'd rather see more substance than just photo ops with a tortoise. What about the actual agreements signed? The article mentions bilateral cooperation but no specifics. Still, the cultural connect is nice.
As someone living abroad, I love seeing our leaders embrace nature and global friendships. Jonathan is a marvel of nature - over 190 years old! PM Modi feeding him shows a compassionate side often missing in news. The Kutch dance performance really moved me; it's incredible how our diaspora keeps traditions alive across oceans. 🙏
Impressive diplomacy! The personal touch of feeding Jonathan and planting a sapling shows PM Modi's unique approach to international relations. Seychelles has been a steadfast friend in the Indian Ocean. I hope this visit strengthens joint efforts against piracy and climate change. Bharat Mata Ki Jai! 🇮🇳
This is what leadership should look like! Connecting with local culture, respecting nature, and building bridges. The Kutch dance welcome must have been so special for the diaspora there. PM Modi always finds ways to make Indian heritage shine globally. Well done!
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