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The world is filled with 47 recognised island countries and each one of them offers spectacular views, carry fascinating history as well as serve a major role in world trade. Many island countries such as Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles are quite tiny on the map but they are quite important when it comes to shipping lanes they are quite busy.
That is why these nations gain attention from all over the world and it was very visible recently when India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Seychelles as the Guest of Honour for the celebrations of the 50th independence day of Seychelles.
Moreover, this visit also coincides with the 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. During the visit, Narendra Modi had bilateral talks with President Herminie, addressed the country's National Assembly, received Seychelles' special presidential distinction which is "Guardian of the Blue Horizon" for his contributions to the climate change efforts as well as talked about India’s MAHASAGAR initiative which jointly combats with piracy, illegal businesses and will help strengthen the Seychelles Coast Guard.
Seychelles is an important hub for India and many other countries. Let’s learn about the history of this island nation along with some interesting facts.
Where is Seychelles?
Seychelles is an island nation that is located in the western Indian Ocean and it is a country in Africa that is 1,500 kilometers east of mainland East Africa. This country is made up of 115 islands.
The main islands are Mahe, Praslin and La Digue that cover an approximate area of 455 square kilometers and have a coastline of approximately 746 kilometers.
The location of Seychelles is directly along the main shipping routes of the Indian Ocean that is why this country has a very strategic importance.
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What is the Currency of Seychelles?
The currency of Seychelles is Seychellois rupee (SCR) and it is a stronger currency than India rupee. The country has its own central bank, also known as the Central Bank of Seychelles, to issue and regulate its currency.
The economy of the country is mixed and majorly depends on the service sector and tourism. The 2024 World Bank Data shows the GDP of this island country to be 2.17 billion.
What is the History of Seychelles?
The nation was inhabited for around 150 years. The islands first appeared on the ancient Portuguese map in 1502. The first landing on the islands was in the year 1609 during an expedition by the English Company.
It was during 1700 to 1748 when Lazare Picault discovered the Seychelles and in 1756 Capt. Nicolas Murphey (1729-1774) took possession of the Seychelles.
The island of Mahe was named in the honour of French Minister of Finances, Jean Moreau de Sechelles.
The first French settlement on the island was in 1770. The British took over the islands in the year 1811 and from that year onwards it was ruled as a Dependency of Mauritius till 10th November 1903.
From 1903 it was ruled by eighteen governors and it was 29th June 1976 when Seychelles achieved independence from Great Britain and James Mancham (1939 -2017) was the first first President of Seychelles.