Victoria, June 26 (IANS) Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Seychelles to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country’s National Day as the Guest of Honour, members of the Indian diaspora are optimistic that the visit will further strengthen the relationship and business ties between the two nations.

A member of the diaspora, who hails from Jodhpur in Rajasthan and has been staying in Seychelles for the past eight years, said: “In view of defence and security, Seychelles is a preferred partner for India. With PM Modi’s visit, business and relationship between the two nations will strengthen further.”

“There are a huge number of Indians in Seychelles who are contributing to the nation’s economy and business. Many Indian companies also operate here,” he told IANS.

Another diaspora member, Veronica, said she was excited for the visit. “It would be a pleasure to have Prime Minister Modi to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Seychelles’ Independence.”

Prime Minister Modi will be on a State visit to Seychelles, at the invitation of President Patrick Herminie, from June 27-29.

During the visit, PM Modi will hold talks with President Herminie to review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, according to the statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

PM Modi is scheduled to address the Seychelles National Assembly and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.

“India and Seychelles share a longstanding partnership rooted in shared historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. As a key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean region, Seychelles holds a special place in India’s Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and our commitment to the Global South,” the MEA statement said.

PM Modi’s visit to Seychelles will reaffirm the strong and enduring friendship between the two nations and reinforce the shared commitment of both countries to enhance the bilateral relationship across all sectors, it added.

A contingent of the Indian armed forces, along with two ships of the Indian Navy, will participate in the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles, the Ministry of External Affairs has said.

–IANS

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