PM Modi Celebrates Seychelles' 50th Independence Anniversary, Highlights Historical Ties

PM Modi said, "The first country that I visited in the Indian Ocean region as Prime Minister was Seychelles in 2015. I came here because I believe that Seychelles has a special place in India's vision for the Indian Ocean. Returning here after a decade, my belief is stronger than ever. I am extremely happy to join you in this celebration of 50 years of your independence." Addressing the Parliament of Seychelles, the Prime Minister said, "Our friendship did not begin 50 years ago with the establishment of our diplomatic relations. It began much earlier in August 1770. There were five Indians among those who arrived on St. Anne's Island on a ship called Thelemaque. That visit paved the way for many more. Over time, their stories became part of the history of modern Seychelles." He said, "It reminds us that it was not the government that built these relationships between our people, but the Indian Ocean that nourished and nourished us."