‘Guard of honour’ at Seychelles airport, fed Aldabra tortoises, this is how PM Modi was welcomed
Victoria. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Seychelles on Saturday on a three-day official visit. A large number of people of Indian origin gathered outside the Seychelles International Airport to welcome them. The Prime Minister has come here on a three-day official visit. Modi was given a grand welcome at the airport by President Patrick Herminie and a high-level delegation.
The Prime Minister was also given a formal ‘Guard of Honour’. On arrival, Modi was welcomed with dance music, one of which performed the dance of Kutch. During this visit, he will hold talks with President Patrick Herminie and attend the golden jubilee celebrations of the ‘National Day’ of this island country.
Modi posted on ‘X’, “Great cultural connect!” He said, “The welcome at the airport in Seychelles also included Kutch dance. The way our expatriate community has preserved the culture of different parts of India is praiseworthy.”
He also accompanied President Hermine to the National Botanical Garden of Seychelles for a tree planting programme.
Prime Minister Modi was also seen feeding the giant Aldabra tortoises there. Modi, who is on a state visit at the invitation of President Harmini, will attend the National Day celebrations as a ‘special guest’.
“Seychelles is an important maritime partner and close friend of ours in the Indian Ocean. I look forward to a fruitful visit that aims to further strengthen our long-standing ties and enhance cooperation for the benefit of our two peoples,” he said. In a statement before leaving for the visit, the Prime Minister said Seychelles is an important maritime neighbor of India and a key partner in India’s shared commitment to ‘Vision Ocean’ and the ‘Global South’.
Officials said a contingent of the Indian Armed Forces and two ships of the Indian Navy will take part in the ceremonies. Modi further said that he is eagerly looking forward to the bilateral talks aimed at further strengthening the age-old friendship between the two countries. “Together we will work for the advancement of our people and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region,” he said before leaving for the Seychelles visit.
The two sides are expected to review all aspects of bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Prime Minister Modi will also address the National Assembly, the Parliament of Seychelles, and interact with members of the Indian community. Prime Minister Modi had earlier visited Seychelles in 2015, while President Hermini had visited India this year.
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