Victoria, June 26 -- Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Seychelles, senior officials and stakeholders in the island nation have expressed optimism, describing the visit as a reflection of the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries, particularly in areas such as development, trade, education and infrastructure.

Speaking to ANI, Antonia Cherry, Human Resources and Budget Management Officer at the Ministry of Local Government and Inner Islands, called the visit "important" and underlined India's long-standing role as a key development partner for Seychelles.

"It is very important and an honour, as India has always stood by us; India has been a vital part of the backbone of Seychelles' development, wh...