Meeting Highlights Bilateral Cooperation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Bernard Georges, the Leader of the Opposition in the Seychelles Parliament, on Sunday during his three-day official visit to the archipelago nation. The meeting took place in Victoria and included representatives from both countries, focusing on strengthening India-Seychelles relations.
Focus on Youth and Development
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefed the media, noting that discussions centered on enhancing bilateral ties and engaging the youth of both nations in further developing the relationship. The meeting underscored the importance of people-to-people connections and future-oriented cooperation.
Georges Praises Democratic Ties
Earlier, Bernard Georges addressed the National Assembly after PM Modi's remarks, highlighting the significance of the leader of the world's largest democracy speaking to one of the smallest legislative bodies. He stated, "The political head of the largest democracy taking the time to speak at length and with passion to the members of one of the world's smallest underlines the universal nature of the democratic process and the enduring relevance of parliamentary and participatory democracy as a system of governance."
Ethnic and Economic Links
Georges noted the ethnic fusion between the two countries, pointing to Seychellois of Indian extraction who dominate wholesale and retail trade, and Indian nationals and Indo-Seychellois entrepreneurs from Gujarat who steer much of the construction industry. He emphasized that these ties link the destinies of the two nations.
Parliamentary Friendship Group
Georges highlighted the Seychelles-India Parliamentary Friendship Group, which fosters closer exchanges and cooperation between the parliaments. He added, "These, among many other ties which bind us, have ensured that our destinies are linked. We must nonetheless remain mindful of our respective strengths and, as friends, remain balanced partners, respectful of the independence of each other." He thanked India for five decades of support across various fields.
State Visit and Golden Jubilee
PM Modi is on a three-day State Visit from June 27 to 29 at the invitation of President Patrick Herminie. He is scheduled to attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour, marking 50 years of independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.
