Delhi/Victoria, June 28 (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred Seychelles' special presidential distinction, 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', during his three-day visit to the island nation. He dedicated the honour to countries working to combat climate change and protect the environment for future generations.

Expressing gratitude to the Government and people of Seychelles, Prime Minister Modi said the honour belonged to all nations striving to address the challenges posed by climate change. He reiterated India's commitment to sustainable development through initiatives such as Mission LiFE, the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi held delegation-level talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the State House in Victoria. The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour on his arrival at the State House.

The Indian delegation included External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. The Seychelles delegation was led by President Herminie and included Vice President Sebastien Pillay and senior Cabinet ministers.

Prime Minister Modi, who arrived in Seychelles on Saturday for a three-day visit, is scheduled to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country's National Day as the Guest of Honour on Monday. He will also address the National Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.

India and Seychelles share close bilateral ties spanning maritime security, development partnership, capacity building and people-to-people exchanges. Seychelles is a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and its engagement with the Global South.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar