Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Parliament of Seychelles on Sunday. PM Modi said, “It is a special honor for me to stand before you as the first Indian Prime Minister to address this National Assembly. I bring the warm wishes and greetings of the 1.4 billion people of India.”
PM Modi said, “The first country 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 participate in this celebration of 50 years of your independence.”
What did PM Modi say about India’s relations with Seychelles?
Addressing the Parliament of Seychelles, the Prime Minister said, “Our friendship did not begin with the establishment of our diplomatic relations 50 years ago. It began much earlier, in August 1770. Five Indians were among those who arrived on the ship Thelemac at St. Anne’s Island. That journey paved the way for many more. Over time, their stories have become part of the history of modern Seychelles.”
He said, “It reminds us that the relationships between us were not created by governments. They were forged by people, nurtured by families and sustained by generations. The Indian Ocean made it possible. The Indian Ocean does not separate India and Seychelles, but connects us. That is why we meet not like strangers, but like old friends.”
What did PM Modi say on the importance of Indian Ocean?
Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the Indian Ocean is not a barrier but a bridge that connects the two countries as old friends. He said, “The Indian Ocean does not separate India and Seychelles, it connects us. That is why we meet not as strangers, but as old friends.”
Expressing his gratitude to the Speaker, Prime Minister Modi described the invitation to address the House as a rare privilege. He also congratulated the newly elected members of the 8th National Assembly and particularly appreciated the election of the first woman Speaker of the House.