Indian – Diaspora Welcomes PM Modi During Seychelles National Day Visit
Indian – Members of the Indian community in Seychelles are preparing to extend a warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he begins his three-day State Visit to the island nation. The visit, taking place from June 27 to June 29, coincides with Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, where the Prime Minister will participate as the Guest of Honour. Members of the diaspora have expressed great enthusiasm, describing the visit as an important moment for both countries and a chance to strengthen their longstanding relationship.
Indian Community Awaits Historic Visit
Many members of the Indian diaspora said they have been making arrangements for weeks to ensure a memorable reception. Cultural performances, traditional dances, and community events have been planned to welcome the Prime Minister upon his arrival. Several people noted that this is the first opportunity in many years to greet him personally, making the occasion especially meaningful for families who have lived in Seychelles for decades.
One long-time resident, who has spent around 15 years in Seychelles, said the community is delighted to welcome Prime Minister Modi once again after more than a decade. He recalled meeting the Prime Minister during his previous visit and said this year’s preparations have generated similar excitement. Members of the Gujarati community have also joined the celebrations, expressing pride in taking part in the official welcome ceremony.
Strong Cultural Bonds Between India and Seychelles
Another member of the Indian community shared that this would be the first time seeing Prime Minister Modi in person since relocating to Seychelles in 2016. According to the resident, Indians enjoy a positive reputation in the country, while local people have shown appreciation for Indian traditions and cultural celebrations. The community hopes the visit will encourage greater connectivity, including the possibility of direct air services between India and Seychelles, which many believe would benefit tourism and business.
Residents also highlighted that relations between the two countries have remained warm over the years. They expressed confidence that the Prime Minister’s visit could open the door to fresh cooperation in several sectors while strengthening existing diplomatic ties.
Preparations Reflect Community Enthusiasm
Another diaspora member originally from Gujarat said volunteers have coordinated extensive arrangements covering the Prime Minister’s route from the airport to official venues. Community groups are expected to present cultural performances showcasing India’s diverse heritage. Participants described the visit as a proud moment for Indians living abroad and an opportunity to celebrate the friendship shared by the two nations.
State Visit Focuses on Regional Cooperation
Prime Minister Modi departed for Seychelles on Saturday for an official three-day State Visit following an invitation from Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie. During the visit, he will attend the country’s 50th National Day celebrations and hold discussions aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation.
Before leaving India, the Prime Minister described Seychelles as one of India’s valued maritime neighbours and an important partner under the Vision MAHASAGAR initiative. He said both countries share a commitment to promoting stability, prosperity, and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean region.
Maritime Partnership Remains a Key Priority
The Prime Minister also expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen cooperation in maritime security and contribute to a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Indian Ocean. India and Seychelles have maintained close collaboration in areas such as maritime safety, capacity building, economic development, and regional engagement. Officials expect the visit to reinforce these partnerships while encouraging broader cooperation aligned with the interests of the Global South.