New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet Jonathan, the world’s oldest living land animal, during his visit to the Seychelles next week, officials said. While at the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, Modi will also take part in a tree-planting ceremony.
The trip coincides with celebrations marking 50 years of diplomatic relations betw
een India and the Seychelles. Modi has been invited as Guest of Honour for the islands’ National Day and will hold talks with Seychelles leaders on strengthening cooperation in maritime security, the blue economy, climate resilience and capacity building.
A Living Legend
Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise believed to have been born in 1832, is estimated to be about 194 years old and is recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living land animal. Veterinarians say Jonathan remains in relatively good health despite cataracts and a reduced sense of smell, and is a major attraction at the botanical gardens.
Visit Of Note For PM
Officials said the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens visit — where Modi will plant a tree to underscore environmental conservation — is one of the major engagements on his itinerary and is expected to reinforce bilateral ties during the golden jubilee of India–Seychelles relations.