Victoria, Seychelles, June 28: Seychelles on Sunday celebrated its 50th National Day with grand ceremonies in the capital, Victoria, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Guest of Honour. The visit underscored the close cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
Prime Minister Modi joined Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and thousands of citizens during the official celebrations, which marked five decades of the island nation’s independence.
Grand National Day Celebrations
The National Day festivities featured a ceremonial parade, cultural performances, traditional music, and exhibitions showcasing Seychelles’ heritage and achievements over the past 50 years.
The celebrations highlighted the country’s multicultural identity and reflected its long-standing friendship with India, one of its key development partners.
PM Modi Reaffirms India’s Support
During the celebrations, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Seychelles through cooperation in education, healthcare, digital technology, maritime security, renewable energy, and capacity building.
He described the relationship as one based on mutual trust, shared democratic values, and a common vision for peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
Cultural Ties Take Centre Stage
India and Seychelles have maintained strong people-to-people connections for decades, supported by a vibrant Indian-origin community living in the island nation.
Cultural exchanges, educational partnerships, scholarships, yoga initiatives, and tourism have played a significant role in bringing the two countries closer. Leaders from both nations expressed confidence that these exchanges would continue to strengthen bilateral friendship.
Agreements to Deepen Cooperation
On the sidelines of the National Day celebrations, both countries reviewed ongoing development projects and discussed expanding collaboration in the Blue Economy, climate resilience, digital public infrastructure, skill development, and sustainable growth.
Several bilateral initiatives announced during the visit are expected to further enhance economic cooperation and institutional partnerships.
Partnership for the Future
Prime Minister Modi’s participation in Seychelles’ National Day celebrations reflects India’s broader commitment to strengthening partnerships with island nations under its MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision.
Officials from both countries said the visit marks another milestone in India–Seychelles relations and will further deepen cultural exchanges, strategic cooperation, and people-to-people ties in the years ahead.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India
Original Report:
https://www.mea.gov.in/
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