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Archive - Archive 2004 - July 2013

66th anniversary of India’s Independence Day-‘Seychelles to build stronger partnership with India’ |17 August 2012

66th anniversary of India’s Independence Day-‘Seychelles to build stronger partnership with India’

Messrs Payet and Darlong proposing a toast

Environment and Energy Minister Professor Rolph Payet said this during a reception on Wednesday evening to mark the 66th anniversary of India’s Independence Day.

The event took place at the Constance Ephelia Resort at Port Launay.
Mr Payet was addressing the audience on behalf of Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Paul Adam who is not in the country.

Present at the ceremony were Vice-President Danny Faure, leader of the opposition in the National Assembly David Pierre, as well as several ministers and members of the National Assembly.

Also there were other high government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and the Indian community and guests.

Mr Payet wished the people of India further progress and prosperity on the anniversary of the country’s Independence Day.

He said this anniversary serves as an inspiration to all, a reminder that open and democratic societies help people fulfill their dreams and aspirations.

Today India-Seychelles defence ties are strong and growing, he said.

“Our defence relationship involves various military joint exercises, frequent naval ship visits, donation of defence equipment and various training opportunities.”

“We are very grateful to India for the consistent and multifaceted support given to secure our waters in order to combat threats like piracy.”

He added that India has also committed in helping Seychelles with US $25 million and a US $50 million line of credit to ease further development in the country in various fields such as renewable energy.

Mr Payet said he is looking forward to be in India in October to attend the next conference of the parties of the convention on biological diversity – the world’s most important environment conference after Rio+20.

“This conference is of major significance for small island states like us.”
Indian high commissioner Thanglura Darlong said India has come a long way since it became independent in 1947.

“India has positioned itself as one of the fastest growing economies of the world.”
Speaking about the Indo-Seychelles relations, he said it has been characterised by close friendship, understanding and co-operation.

A partial view of guests at the event

He said the visit of former Indian President Pratibha Patil in Seychelles a few months ago has been another important milestone in the bilateral relations.

Mr Darlong said the government of India will remain committed to working with the government of Seychelles for consolidation of peace, prosperity and development and for the further enrichment of bilateral ties.

After the speeches both parties proposed a toast towards the good health of their president as well as their people.

During the ceremony there was the traditional lighting of the lamp to mark the occasion.
The audience also got the chance to watch a video on India.

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