Gandhinagar, June 29 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Monday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Seychelles as a landmark moment in bilateral relations, following a series of high-level engagements that included participation in National Day celebrations, formal talks with the island nation’s leadership, and the conferment of Seychelles’ highest honour.

Reacting to the Prime Minister’s post on social media platform X, CM Patel said the visit had taken India-Seychelles relations “to new heights”.

“A truly historic visit that has taken the India–Seychelles partnership to new heights under the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi. The conferment of Seychelles’ highest distinction, ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’ is a proud recognition of his global leadership in sustainability, environmental stewardship and the Blue Economy,” Patel wrote.

He further stated: “From strengthening maritime cooperation to advancing development partnerships and people-to-people ties, this visit reflects India’s unwavering commitment to the Global South and the vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

PM Modi, in a post on X following the conclusion of his visit, said the trip had delivered “substantive outcomes” for India-Seychelles relations and expressed confidence in the future trajectory of ties between the two countries.

“My visit to Seychelles has been filled with substantive outcomes that will boost the India-Seychelles friendship. I can confidently say that while the past fifty years of our relationship have been marked by deep trust and shared progress, the next fifty years will be defined by innovation, sustainability and shared prosperity,” PM Modi had wrote.

He added that his participation in Seychelles’ National Day celebrations was especially significant as the country marked 50 years of independence.

“I am happy to have joined the National Day celebrations and that too during the time when Seychelles marks 50 years of Independence. I thank President Herminie, the Government and people of Seychelles for their affection,” he said.

According to official briefings and statements released during the visit, Prime Minister Modi was also conferred the “Guardian of the Blue Horizon” honour by Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie in recognition of his work on climate action, ocean governance and sustainable development.

The honour was presented during events marking both Seychelles’ National Day and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles.

The visit also featured bilateral discussions between the two sides, participation in independence celebrations, and wider engagements focused on maritime cooperation, digital infrastructure, and development support in the Indian Ocean region.

Officials stated that the visit resulted in a set of agreements and initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors, including security and economic connectivity.

–IANS

mys/pgh