Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’, Seychelles’ highest presidential award, for his leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development, during his visit to the island nation.
After receiving this honour, Prime Minister Modi dedicated the award to all countries working collectively to confront the growing challenges of climate change.
“I accept this title with all humility and honor and dedicate it to all other countries that are struggling against the challenges of climate change and for whom environmental protection is their responsibility towards future generations,” the Prime Minister said on April 10.
He added: “I express my gratitude to the people and government of Seychelles, as well as to President Herminie, for bestowing on me the title of ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’.”
“This is an urgent challenge that we need to overcome together. The sun, on its way, is ready to do whatever is necessary to make the world greener and more sustainable. This is reflected in our various domestic policies, with the LiFe mission slogan (Vision for a Sustainable Future) and global efforts like the International Solar Alliance, the Alliance for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and others,” PM Modi wrote.
List of environmental awards received by Prime Minister Modi
This latest honor adds to a series of international honors that recognize the Prime Minister’s contributions to sustainability and comprehensive development.
In May, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) awarded Prime Minister Modi the Agricola Medal for his efforts to enhance food security, modernize agriculture and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Earlier, in 2018, he was awarded the Seoul Peace Prize for his contribution to sustainable economic growth, international cooperation and comprehensive development.
In the same year, the United Nations honored him with the prestigious Champions of the Earth Award, the organization’s highest environmental recognition, in recognition of his leadership in promoting climate action and protecting the environment.
Prime Minister Modi in Seychelles
Earlier on Sunday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at State House, where the two leaders reviewed the full scope of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. The discussions focused on continuing to strengthen the long-term partnership between the two countries in key sectors.
Prime Minister Modi is visiting Seychelles at the invitation of President Herminie for a three-day visit. On Monday, he will attend the country’s Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as guest of honour. During the visit, he is also scheduled to address the National Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.
India and Seychelles share deep-rooted historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. As a major maritime partner in the Indian Ocean region, Seychelles occupies an important place in India’s vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Comprehensive Advancement of Security and Growth across Regions).
