Victoria (Seychelles): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the nation envisions an Indian Ocean where maritime security is ensured alongside economic prosperity and where partnership is not based on size, but on mutual respect and trust.
"Our vision is to make the Indian Ocean an ocean of opportunity," Modi said after delegation-level talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, during which they reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
"We believe the Indian Ocean is our shared home. Its security, sustainability and prosperity are our shared responsibility.", stated Modi.
He said that the two sides discussed making bilateral economic cooperation more resilient and future-ready.
"We will continue to explore new opportunities for the industries of both our countries. Work will also be done to enhance connectivity between India and Seychelles," he said.
Modi holds talks with Herminie
As part of the visit, Indian Prime Minister Modi on Sunday held talks with the President of Seychelles, Patrick Herminie. The leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Modi, who arrived in Seychelles on Saturday on a three-day visit, was welcomed at the State House by President Herminie.
The two leaders held delegation-level talks during which they exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Prime Minister Modi, who is visiting Seychelles at the invitation of President Herminie, will attend the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles on Monday as the Guest of Honour.
Modi honoured with ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’ title
Modi was also conferred with the honorary ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’ title by Seychelles’ President Patrick Herminie here, marking his 34th international honor from a foreign nation.
“Grateful to the people and Government of Seychelles as well as President Herminie for conferring upon me the ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’,” PM Modi posted on social media after receiving the honour.
“I humbly accept this honour and dedicate it to all those countries that are fighting the challenge of climate change and consider environmental protection their responsibility towards future generations. This is a pressing challenge which we have to overcome together,” Modi said.
In a ceremony held at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base, Modi also handed over a 'Made in India' fast patrol vessel to the country's coast guard, reaffirming New Delhi's commitment to strengthening the maritime security capabilities of Seychelles.
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 the nation's commitment to the Global South.
(With inputs from PTI)
