PM Modi's Seychelles visit to include meeting with 194-year-old giant tortoise

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet Jonathan, an Aldabra giant tortoise believed to be the world's oldest living land animal, during his official visit to Seychelles that began on Friday.

Jonathan, who resides at the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, is estimated to be around 194 years old and holds the Guinness World Record as the world's oldest living land animal. Although his exact birth year remains unverified, he has far exceeded the average lifespan of his species.

The meeting is expected to highlight the importance both India and Seychelles place on environmental conservation, biodiversity preservation and sustainable development.

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Visit coincides with 50 years of diplomatic ties

Prime Minister Modi is visiting Seychelles as the Chief Guest for the country's National Day celebrations, which also mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the island nation.

During his visit to the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, the Prime Minister will also participate in a tree plantation programme aimed at promoting environmental protection and climate resilience in the Indian Ocean region.

Officials said the event reflects the growing emphasis on ecological cooperation and conservation efforts between the two countries.

Focus on maritime security and strategic ties

Apart from participating in ceremonial events, Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to visit the Seychelles Coast Guard Base, underlining the strategic importance of maritime cooperation between India and Seychelles.

The Prime Minister will have bilateral talks with the Seychelles President, Dr Patrick Herminie, covering issues related to maritime security, the blue economy, defense cooperation, and climate action.

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Besides, Indian Navy ships along with Indian defense personnel are attending the National Day celebrations in Seychelles.

This is not the first time that Prime Minister Modi visits Seychelles; he last visited in 2015, and his current visit is likely to deepen strategic, economic, and people-to-people ties between the two nations.

FAQs

Q1. Who is Jonathan, whom PM Modi will meet in Seychelles?

Jonathan is a giant Aldabra tortoise believed to be about 194 years old and listed in the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living land animal.

Q2. Why is PM Modi visiting Seychelles?

Prime Minister Modi is visiting Seychelles as the Chief Guest for its National Day celebrations, coinciding with 50 years of diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles.