Leader of the Opposition in the Seychelles National Assembly, Bernard Georges, on Sunday hailed the depth of ties with India, describing it as a prime example of "unity in diversity" and urging his nation's leadership to look toward New Delhi for political inspiration.
Speaking after Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed an Extraordinary Sitting of the National Assembly of Seychelles, Georges 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."
Call for Political Unity Amid Domestic Divisions
Georges remarked, "Your Excellency's state visit will encourage our political leaders to look to India as an example of unity in diversity." He expressed regret that while Seychelles celebrated its Golden Jubilee of independence in the presence of PM Modi and other dignitaries, the country remained "politically divided at its core," with the opposition absent from all ceremonies. "If we are proud as a nation... we are equally concerned that the direction of political travel our country has recently embarked upon is one which puts our very democracy at risk," he added, hoping that PM Modi's presence would inspire unity.
Deep Ethnic and Economic Ties
Georges highlighted the ethnic fusion between the two countries, noting that large segments of wholesale and retail trade in Seychelles are handled by Seychellois of Indian extraction, and the bulk of the construction industry is steered by Indian nationals and Indo-Seychellois entrepreneurs from Gujarat, PM Modi's home state. He also mentioned the Seychelles-India Parliamentary Friendship Group, which fosters closer exchanges and cooperation, stating, "These, among many other ties which bind us, have ensured that our destinies are linked."
Gratitude for Indian Support
On behalf of his caucus and personally, Georges thanked India for its generosity to Seychelles over five decades in many fields. He called on the Prime Minister, and the two leaders discussed bilateral ties, reaffirming their strong support to further build the special friendship. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated after the meeting, "The two leaders exchanged views on the strong and enduring India-Seychelles partnership. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing peace, prosperity and sustainable development in Seychelles."
Honours and Agreements
Earlier, President Patrick Herminie conferred upon PM Modi the Presidential Distinction 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', the first time such an honour was bestowed by Seychelles. The two leaders held official talks at State House in Victoria, Mahe, released a joint commemorative logo marking 50 years of diplomatic relations, and exchanged several MoUs in capacity building, UPI, health, agriculture, shipping, space, extradition, and line of credit. PM Modi is on a three-day State Visit to Seychelles from June 27 to 29, attending the Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as Guest of Honour, marking 50 years of independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.
