Prime Minister Narendra Modi fed Jonathan, the world's oldest living land animal, during a visit to the National Botanical Garden of Seychelles in Victoria on Saturday. The event took place shortly after PM Modi arrived for a three-day official state visit to the archipelagic nation.
PM Modi and Seychelles President Tour Botanical Garden
Prime Minister Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie toured the National Botanical Garden together. They planted a commemorative sapling within the premises and interacted with conservatory staff, who briefed them on the unique flora and fauna of the sanctuary. The gesture highlighted the shared commitment to environmental conservation.
Jonathan: The World's Oldest Living Land Animal
Jonathan, a giant tortoise believed to be over 190 years old, is recognized as the world's oldest living land animal. PM Modi fed the tortoise during the visit, a moment that drew attention to the botanical garden's conservation efforts. The Seychelles National Botanical Garden houses several endemic species and serves as a key site for biodiversity preservation.
Warm Welcome and Cultural Performances
President Herminie personally received PM Modi at the tarmac alongside top cabinet ministers and senior officials. The arrival reception featured vibrant cultural performances, including a traditional dance from the Kutch region of Gujarat. Reflecting on the cultural presentation, PM Modi posted on social media platform X: "Amazing cultural connect! The welcome at the airport in Seychelles included a dance from Kutch. The manner in which our diaspora has preserved and celebrated culture from different parts of India is appreciable."
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
PM Modi will be the Guest of Honour at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Seychelles' National Day, marking 50 years since independence from the United Kingdom in 1976. In a post on X, PM Modi expressed optimism: "Landed in Seychelles. Deeply appreciate the warm welcome extended at the airport by Dr. Patrick Herminie. Seychelles is a valued maritime partner and a close friend in the Indian Ocean. Looking forward to a productive visit aimed at further strengthening our longstanding ties and enhancing cooperation for the benefit of the people of our nations."
Indian Diaspora Enthusiasm
PM Modi thanked the Indian diaspora for their warm reception, sharing glimpses of the welcome on X. He also posted a photograph of a candid moment with President Herminie during the drive to the botanical garden, captioning it: "On the way to the Seychelles National Botanical Garden with President Dr. Patrick Herminie." The visit underscores the deep diplomatic bonds between India and Seychelles, with a focus on maritime partnership and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
