P RIME Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India envisions an Indian Ocean where maritime security goes hand in hand with economic prosperity, with partnerships built on mutual respect and trust rather than size.
Addressing a joint press statement with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie following bilateral and delegation-level talks in Victoria, the Prime Minister said India’s vision is to transform the Indian Ocean into an “Ocean of Opportunity”.
“We believe the Indian Ocean is our shared home; its security, sustainability and prosperity are our shared responsibility. This sentiment forms the foundation of our MAHASAGAR vision,” PM Modi said.
He added, “The message of my Seychelles visit is clear: India envisions an Indian Ocean where maritime security is ensured alongside economic prosperity; where our partnership is not based on size, but on mutual respect and trust; and where we do not go country-to-country, but move forward together. Our vision is to make the Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity.”
The Prime Minister said the Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL), adopted during President Herminie’s State Visit to India in February this year, has laid the roadmap for future cooperation between the two countries.
“The joint vision issued during the President’s visit to India has laid the blueprint for our future partnership. Building upon this, our cooperation across all sectors is strengthening,” he said.
PM Modi said India and Seychelles discussed ways to make bilateral economic cooperation more resilient and future-ready by exploring new opportunities for industries in both countries.
He also emphasised the importance of improving connectivity between the two nations, saying stronger links would boost trade while enhancing engagement with East Africa and the wider Indian Ocean region.
“Efforts will also be made to enhance connectivity between India and Seychelles. This will not only boost our trade but also strengthen ties with East Africa and the Indian Ocean region,” he said. — ANI
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