Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 194-year-old Jonathan Tortoise on visit to Seychelle
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a unique encounter in the Seychelles when he visited Jonathan, the world’s oldest land turtle, at 194 years old. The leader’s agenda on the island, which already included the celebration of a diplomatic fiftieth anniversary, gained a special and symbolic touch with the interaction at the Seychelles National Botanical Garden. The visit highlighted India and Seychelles’ mutual dedication to environmental causes and the advancement of sustainable practices.
Modi, who was the guest of honor at the Seychelles National Day celebrations, shared footage of the event on his Twitter account. The year 2026 marks an important moment, celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Meet Jonathan: the turtle who lived through two centuries of history
Jonathan is not just any animal; he is a true icon of longevity. Born around 1832, this giant tortoise specimen is approximately 194 years old and holds Guinness World Records recognition as the oldest living land animal on the planet.
Its existence spans almost two centuries, which means that Jonathan has witnessed several generations and a remarkable historical transformation. The animal has witnessed everything from the era of the British Empire and the abolition of slavery, through the two world wars and the invention of electricity, radio and television, to the complexity of computers and the internet. His long life is a living time capsule of the profound changes taking place in the world.
Learn more: Indian leader Narendra Modi visits Jonathan, the world’s longest-living giant tortoise at 194 years old
See Also
Full coverage: Latest News (EN)
The importance of the National Botanical Garden for environmental diplomacy
Narendra Modi’s visit to the Seychelles National Botanical Garden was a highlight on his agenda. In addition to the memorable meeting with Jonathan, the prime minister planted a tree, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to protecting the environment and developing sustainable actions.
In addition to the protocol acts, Modi’s visit included high-level discussions with Seychelles authorities. The main objective of the stay was to further strengthen the collaboration and bilateral ties already established between the two nations.
Jonathan, a giant tortoise native to the Seychelles, has transcended his role as an inhabitant of the National Botanical Garden. Over the course of its long journey, it has become a priceless historical specimen. Its presence attracts researchers, nature enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world, all eager to observe a living being that has managed to cross almost 200 years of history.
