55th anniversary of the Republic of India-Low key ceremony marks occasion |28 January 2005

Held at the International Conference Centre on Wednesday evening, this year’s ceremony to mark the occasion was graced by the presence of President James Michel, Former President James Mancham, the Indian High Commissioner H.E. Mr Arun Kumar Goel, government ministers, members of the Indo-Seychelles Friendship Association (ISFA) and other guests.

Organised in collaboration with the ISFA and the Indian High Commission, the gathering this year was a low key affair without the usual colourful cultural activity.

Addressing the audience, H.E. Mr Goel noted that this year's function was less of a celebration as it was being held in the wake of the tsunami and its aftermath.

"It is less of a celebration, being observed in a subdued manner with no cultural show.

Even though India was directly and immediately affected, it rose to the occasion and proved a friend, for nations in need, in its neighbourhood," Mr Goel said, adding that India will assist Seychelles with its post tsunami reconstruction and health sector.

Referring to Seychelles' gradual development following the handing over of the Presidency, Mr Goel described 2004 as one filled with increased emphasis on economic liberalisation and reform policies and one with signs of revived economic activity and increased good-neighbourly relations.

He said that 2005 will see more concrete examples of co-operation in the fields of business and commerce between the two countries.

He also mentioned the transfer of a fast patrol boat from the Indian navy to the Seychelles Coast Guard to help look after Seychelles’ exclusive economic zone.

ISFA chairman T.S.K Nair also took the opportunity to call upon all the members of the association, their families and friends "to come forward and contribute towards the victims of the tragedy and join in the sterling efforts that are under way at a national level."

The Minister for Local Government, Sports and Culture, Sylvette Pool, congratulated ISFA for its excellent work in fostering ever closer links between the Seychellois and Indian communities.

Toasts were also proposed to the prosperous relations between both countries.
The event culminated with refreshments and snacks.