PM Modi Holds Bilateral Talks with Seychelles President
Victoria , June 28
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of Seychelles Patrick Herminie held bilateral talks at Victoria this afternoon. Both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Earlier, he was given a Guard of Honour at the State House with President Herminie also present. Several agreements were exchanged in a range of fields, including agriculture, finance, space, and health.
Seychelles has conferred its highest honour for environmental leadership, the ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognising his commitment to sustainable development and green growth.
Addressing the joint press meet, Prime Minister Modi said it is an honour for him and the citizens of India to be bestowed the Guardian of Blue Horizon honour. He expressed belief that Indian Ocean is a shared home and its security, sustainability and prosperity are shared responsibilities. He said they discussed making economic cooperation more resilient and future-ready today. Mr Modi said both nations will continue to explore new opportunities for the industries of both countries. He added that work will also be done to enhance connectivity between India and Seychelles.
Prime Minister Modi said Digital Technology is an effective medium to bridge the distance between the two countries. He said India’s successful experience in Digital Public Infrastructure will be shared with Seychelles. He expressed happiness that today, an MOU is being signed to implement UPI in Seychelles. Prime Minister also said that the India-Seychelles partnership in the health sector has stood the test of time. He highlighted that during the COVID pandemic, India fulfilled its duty as a friend by supplying vaccines. Mr Modi said the MoU signed on Jan Aushadhi today will help provide quality and affordable medicines to the people of Seychelles.
In the joint press statement, President of Seychelles said that the talks were comprehensive and forward-looking, reflecting the deep bonds of friendship and mutual trust between Seychelles and India. He said that on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the two countries have reaffirmed their commitment to a partnership rooted in shared geography, history, and a common vision for a stable, secure, and prosperous Indian Ocean region. Mr Herminie said that the discussions were centred on the implementation of the Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages, adopted earlier this year. He said the framework provides strategic direction for bilateral cooperation across all sectors.
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to address the National Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian diaspora. Later, he will attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles as the Guest of Honour. A contingent of the Indian defence forces, along with two Indian Navy ships, will also take part in the celebrations.
Prime Minister is on a three-day state visit to Seychelles. This visit reaffirms the strong and enduring friendship between India and Seychelles and strengthens the shared commitment of both nations to enhance bilateral ties across all sectors.