Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began a three-day official visit to Seychelles, where he will attend the island nation's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest and hold talks with President Patrick Herminie to strengthen bilateral ties.
The visit marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Indian Ocean archipelago and is expected to focus on maritime security, the blue economy, climate action and defence cooperation.
One of the highlights of Modi's visit will be his meeting with Jonathan, the world's oldest living land animal. The approximately 194-year-old Aldabra giant tortoise resides at the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens and holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest living land animal. Although Jonathan's exact age has not been verified, he has lived well beyond the species' average lifespan.
The meeting is being viewed as a symbolic gesture highlighting heritage, sustainability and wildlife conservation, themes that have become increasingly important in India-Seychelles cooperation.
Before departing, Modi described Seychelles as a valued maritime neighbour and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and the Global South.
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"Seychelles is a valued maritime neighbour and a key partner in our Vision MAHASAGAR, as well as in advancing the interests of the Global South. I look forward to discussions with my friend, Dr. Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles," the Prime Minister wrote on X.
During his visit to the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, Modi is also scheduled to participate in a tree plantation ceremony, underscoring the two countries' shared commitment to environmental conservation, biodiversity and climate resilience.
The Prime Minister will also attend events linked to Seychelles' National Day celebrations and visit the Seychelles Coast Guard Base, reflecting the close maritime and security cooperation between the two nations.
Bilateral talks between Modi and Herminie are expected to review existing cooperation and explore new initiatives across maritime security, defence, climate action and the blue economy.
An Indian defence contingent and Indian Navy ships will also participate in the National Day celebrations.
Modi last visited Seychelles in 2015. Officials said the latest visit is expected to deepen strategic cooperation, strengthen people-to-people ties and open new avenues for economic engagement between the two countries.
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