Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’, the highest national honour of Seychelles, in recognition of his leadership in environmental conservation, sustainable development and efforts to strengthen cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
Seychelles President Patrick Herminie presented the honour to Prime Minister Modi during his three-day State Visit to the island nation.
The award recognises PM Modi’s long-standing commitment to sustainable growth, climate action and green development. It is the latest in a series of international recognitions for his contributions to environmental protection and sustainable development.
Addressing a joint press statement after bilateral talks, President Herminie said India and Seychelles remain committed to a shared vision of a stable, secure and prosperous Indian Ocean Region.
“I am honoured to have concluded bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi today. Our discussions were comprehensive and forward-looking, reflecting the deep bonds of friendship and mutual trust that unite Seychelles and India,” President Herminie said.
He noted that the two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year and have reaffirmed their commitment to a partnership founded on common geography, shared history and a collective vision for the Indian Ocean region.
President Herminie also highlighted the implementation of the Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages, adopted earlier this year, describing it as a roadmap for expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
“A centrepiece of our talks was the implementation of the Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages. This framework provides strategic direction for cooperation across all sectors. I express my deep appreciation for India’s steadfast support in translating this vision into tangible outcomes that benefit the people of both nations,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi and President Herminie held bilateral as well as delegation-level talks at the State House in Victoria.
The Indian delegation included External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. The Seychelles delegation was led by Vice President Sebastien Pillay and included Principal Minister and Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and the Blue Economy Wallace Cosgrow, and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Barry Faure, among other senior officials.
Prime Minister Modi also received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the State House and is scheduled to address the National Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian community during his visit.
The Prime Minister’s visit coincides with the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Seychelles’ National Day and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
-ANI
