PM Modi's visit to Seychelles will strengthen business ties: Indian diaspora
Victoria, June 26
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Seychelles to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country's National Day as the Guest of Honour, members of the Indian diaspora are optimistic that the visit will further strengthen the relationship and business ties between the two nations.
A member of the diaspora, who hails from Jodhpur in Rajasthan and has been staying in Seychelles for the past eight years, said: "In view of defence and security, Seychelles is a preferred partner for India. With PM Modi's visit, business and relationship between the two nations will strengthen further."
"There are a huge number of Indians in Seychelles who are contributing to the nation's economy and business. Many Indian companies also operate here," he told IANS.
Another diaspora member, Veronica, said she was excited for the visit. "It would be a pleasure to have Prime Minister Modi to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence."
Prime Minister Modi will be on a State visit to Seychelles, at the invitation of President Patrick Herminie, from June 27-29.
During the visit, PM Modi will hold talks with President Herminie to review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, according to the statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
PM Modi is scheduled to address the Seychelles National Assembly and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.
"India and Seychelles share a longstanding partnership rooted in shared historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. As a key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean region, Seychelles holds a special place in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and our commitment to the Global South," the MEA statement said.
PM Modi's visit to Seychelles will reaffirm the strong and enduring friendship between the two nations and reinforce the shared commitment of both countries to enhance the bilateral relationship across all sectors, it added.
A contingent of the Indian armed forces, along with two ships of the Indian Navy, will participate in the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles, the Ministry of External Affairs has said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to see India engaging with small island nations. The Vision MAHASAGAR initiative is exactly what we need to counter Chinese influence in the region. Hope the business agreements translate into real opportunities for Indians abroad.
As an expat living in the region, I can confirm that the Indian community here is vibrant and contributes significantly. Modi's visit is a morale booster for them. That said, I wish more focus was given to trade agreements rather than just photo ops.
PM's foreign policy is truly global now! From Pacific islands to Indian Ocean nations, India is building bridges everywhere. The Navy contingent participation in their National Day is a beautiful gesture of friendship 🌊🤝
Focus on diaspora is smart politics. The Indian community in Seychelles is like a bridge between our cultures. But I hope the government also addresses some concerns about visa issues that diaspora members sometimes face when returning to India.
Happy to see our PM visiting Seychelles for their 50th Independence Day! It's a beautiful country with strong Indian roots. The business ties will definitely grow—many Indian companies like Bank of Baroda and Ashok Leyland are already there.
The strategic importance of Seychelles cannot be overstated. With China building bases in the Indian Ocean, Modi's visit
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