Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a visit to Seychelles from March 10 to March 11, 2015. This was a historic visit as Shri Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minster to visit Seychelles in 33 long years!
In a series of tweets prior beginning his visit, the Prime Minister had written that India attached paramount importance to strengthening relations with the region. He said India's relationship with Seychelles was a very special one built on the foundation of mutual trust and shared values.
This week I would be travelling to Seychelles, Mauritius & Sri Lanka. Am looking forward to enhancing our ties with these friendly Nations.— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 8, 2015
Our ties with Seychelles are special. Am sure my visit will be a productive one & will benefit both our Nations. http://t.co/Cto90tpFsB— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 8, 2015
Shri Narendra Modi arrived at Seychelles airport in the evening of March 10th and was given a grand welcome. The President of Seychelles, Mr. James Michel himself was present to receive the Prime Minister. Seeing a huge gathering of the Indian Community eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of Shri Modi at the airport, he took to twitter and shared the wonderful moment.
Landed in Seychelles. Wonderful seeing the Indian community at the airport! pic.twitter.com/IzsvuCCVtF— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 10, 2015
On the morning of March 11th, Shri Narendra Modi was given a Ceremonial Reception after which he visited the State House and signed the Visitors Book. He wrote that India not only considers Seychelles as a neighbour but as a strategic partner too.
PM @narendramodi signing the Visitors Book at the State House after the Ceremonial Reception in Seychelles. pic.twitter.com/crkm2dhU7W— PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 11, 2015
Have been deeply touched by their (people of Seychelles) warmth & affection towards me: PM @narendramodi writes in the Visitors Book— PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 11, 2015
India consideres Seychelles not only as a maritime neighbour but as a trusted friend & strong strategic partner: PM pic.twitter.com/zQnFSk0SJw— PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 11, 2015
Later in the day, Shri Modi and President Michel held meetings and addressed the statement to media. Shri Narendra Modi appreciated President Michel for his Government's consistent support to India across international forums. Welcoming the launch of direct air services to India by Air Seychelles last December, the PM hoped that ties between India and Seychelles would be deepened further marked by a spirit of respect, equality, enormous goodwill and warmth. The Prime Minister also expressed his gladness to have been able to get a chance to pay a visit to the neighbour in the Indian Ocean. He termed the Seychelles visit to be short but a very productive one. Shri Narendra Modi considered India-Seychelles relationship as unique and special founded on deep sense mutual trust and confidence. Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today, also unveiled the Plaque and Operationalisation of Radar for the CSRS India-Seychelles Cooperation Project in Sychelles.
With President Michel. Am deeply impressed by his vision. Together we will strengthen India-Seychelles ties. pic.twitter.com/ArWxAqjEaO— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 11, 2015
Unveiled the Plaque and Operationalisation of Radar for the CSRS India-Seychelles Cooperation Project. pic.twitter.com/yflDgr94SZ— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 11, 2015
Before concluding his Seychelles visit, the PM addressed a massive gathering at a civic reception. Shri Modi touched upon areas like mitigating climate change, renewable energy and Make in India. The crowd cheered immensely as the PM spoke. The event received an exceptional welcome from the people. The PM thanked his supporters and followers in Seychelles for having him welcomed so warmly.
