Diplomats from Argentina, South Africa and Seychelles joined VFS Global to discuss what could make international travel simpler, with calls for better air links, flexible visa rules and greater exchanges between countries. Easier visas, direct flights and closer ties with young travellers took centre stage at the WION Iconic Tourism Summit 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of Seychelles to India; H.E. Mariano Agustín Caucino, Ambassador of Argentina to India; H.E. Anil Sooklal, High Commissioner of South Africa to India; and Sharad Gowani, Head of Operations – India, VFS Global. H.E.
The WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications, brought together representatives from across the tourism sector.
The panel, titled “Borders Without Barriers: The Diplomacy of Visas & Mobility”, included H.E. Anil Sooklal said India and South Africa have deep historical ties but have yet to make full use of that relationship in tourism. He said stronger air connectivity was needed between the two countries and backed direct flights between India and South Africa. Referring to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s views, Sooklal said direct air links could increase travel between the two countries. He also called for a friendly visa regime and said people needed more information about the opportunities available in India and South Africa.
Sooklal congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the BRICS Summit and said the grouping could have a direct impact on changing perceptions and strengthening ties. He said tourism was increasingly being driven by the Global South, creating opportunities for countries such as India and South Africa. The Argentine Ambassador said connectivity was an important part of making travel easier and called for the restoration of flights to Madrid as part of efforts to improve travel links.
