First Lady of Seychelles Veronique Herminie has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit as a critical affirmation of the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, marking a milestone in their enduring friendship. Speaking exclusively with ANI, she underscored the profound importance of the Prime Minister's presence, particularly as both countries celebrate decades of cooperation.
Significance of the Visit for Seychelles
Emphasizing the visit's impact, the First Lady stated, "It is very, very important for Seychelles. It sends the right message, given that India and Seychelles are also celebrating that many years, in terms of relationship and friendship." She noted that the Indian diaspora in Seychelles constitutes about 10% of the population and is welcoming the Prime Minister's visit. The visit cements the trade and business relationship with India, which has provided substantial assistance in medical, educational, and military sectors.
Strengthening Trade and Business Ties
The First Lady highlighted that the visit serves to strengthen robust trade and business relationships shared by India and Seychelles. She pointed to a legacy of Indian assistance instrumental in the island nation's development, specifically citing support in medical, educational, and military sectors. "Seychelles has received a lot of assistance from India, especially in the medical field, education, and the military. This visit is definitely a very important one for us," she affirmed.
Future Growth and New Areas of Cooperation
Looking toward the future, the First Lady expressed optimism that the partnership will expand beyond the current 50th-anniversary milestone. She identified potential for growth in new areas of mutual interest, emphasizing that both countries should continue to nurture collaborative efforts. "We have a relationship in terms of the medical field in education, and even commerce and investment. If, after this 50th anniversary, this relationship can keep growing, then we can also look at other areas, especially areas of interest for Seychelles," she said.
She also extended a warm invitation to Indian tourists, noting that Seychelles offers tourism and fisheries as its most important economic sectors. "I would welcome the people of India to visit Seychelles. We have much to offer in terms of relaxation and that should hopefully, over the years, grow that partnership even more," she affirmed.
Parliamentary Engagement and Diplomatic Cooperation
Sylvanne Lemiel, Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly of Seychelles, also welcomed PM Modi's visit, stating it is expected to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and parliamentary engagement. "Indian-Seychelles cooperation has strengthened a lot. It will be stronger now, and it's our 50th anniversary and 50 years I can say also friendship with India. Therefore, as the years go by, the relationship itself becomes stronger. So, I think that with his visit here and addressing us in the National Assembly today will strengthen the tie between the National Assembly and the Parliament in India," she said.
Regarding diplomatic cooperation, she announced that an India-Seychelles Parliamentary Committee will facilitate exchanges and training for staff. "It is very, very important because in the diplomatic cooperation that we have, I think the National Assembly will also have a committee, India-Seychelles Parliamentary Committee and this is very, very important for us because I think that it will help us with exchanges, trainings for our staff, and we are supposed to have our new building also. We have just passed our National Assembly Administration Bill, meaning we are financially autonomous now. And I think India will play a very, very big role in ensuring that Parliamentary Seychelles achieve its goal," she said.
PM Modi's State Visit
Prime Minister Modi is on a three-day State Visit to Seychelles from June 27 to June 29 at the invitation of President Herminie. The visit underscores the deep and enduring ties between the two nations, with a focus on expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
