Modi in Seychelles says India-Seychelles friendship is steady, strong and long-lasting

Victoria,UPDATED: Jun 27, 2026 23:40 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday described the India-Seychelles friendship as "steady, strong and long-lasting" and said the two countries would "together win the race" at a state dinner hosted by Seychelles President Patrick Herminie. Modi arrived in Seychelles earlier in the day on a three-day official visit during which he will attend the golden jubilee celebrations of the island nation's Day as the Guest of Honour and hold talks with Herminie.

The visit focused on the close India-Seychelles partnership across development, defence and maritime security. During the day, Modi handed over a 'Made in India' fast patrol vessel to the Seychelles Coast Guard, visited the Seychelles Botanical Garden with Herminie, and took part in a tree plantation ceremony.

According to a statement by Seychelles' Office of the President, Modi said at the state dinner, "The friendship between India and Seychelles has progressed steady, strong and long-lasting, and together we will win the race." Addressing the dinner, Herminie said, "India has been a steadfast friend to Seychelles, a sentiment warmly reciprocated by our people and our vibrant Indian diaspora." The dinner was attended by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Seychelles Speaker of the Assembly Azarel Ernesta, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora Barry Faure, among others.

The statement said Seychelles and India have maintained close and mutually beneficial relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1976, with India remaining a committed development partner in sectors including infrastructure, defence, health and maritime security. The Office of the President also said Modi's visit reflects the longstanding friendship and enduring partnership between the two countries and that the leaders are expected to hold bilateral discussions to further strengthen cooperation. It added that over the past five decades, the two countries have expanded cooperation in maritime security, defence, healthcare, education, capacity building, climate resilience, sustainable development and the blue economy.

Earlier, Modi handed over the fast patrol vessel Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard. In a post on X, he said, "The transfer of the Fast Patrol Vessel Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard marks another important milestone in the growing India-Seychelles partnership in defence and maritime security." He added, "It is also the latest in a series of capability-building initiatives that reflect India's steadfast commitment to supporting the security priorities of Seychelles." Later, Modi and Herminie took part in the handover ceremony for the vessel at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria. Modi also handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats, which the Ministry of External Affairs said would further contribute to Seychelles' development and security.

On arrival at Seychelles Airport, Modi was welcomed by Herminie and a high-level delegation, and was given a ceremonial Guard of Honour. In a post on X after landing, Modi said, "Seychelles is a valued maritime partner and a close friend in the Indian Ocean. Looking forward to a productive visit aimed at further strengthening our longstanding ties and enhancing cooperation for the benefit of the people of our nations." He was greeted with dance performances, including one by a group performing a dance from Kutch.

A large number of people from the Indian diaspora gathered outside the airport and waved Indian flags as Modi briefly interacted with some of them. In another post on X, he said, "The Indian community in Seychelles accorded a very warm welcome this evening." He added, "Their deep affection for India and enduring contribution to Seychelles' progress are truly admirable. The Indian diaspora has long served as a vibrant bridge between our two nations, strengthening people-to-people ties and enriching our shared journey."

Modi also visited a giant tortoise enclosure at the Seychelles Botanical Garden with Herminie before the two leaders joined a tree plantation ceremony, which the Seychelles President's office called "a symbolic gesture of environmental cooperation and friendship". The visit highlighted the two countries' shared commitment to biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.

Modi last visited Seychelles in 2015, while Herminie visited India earlier this year. Ahead of leaving New Delhi, Modi said Seychelles is a valued maritime neighbour and a key partner in the "Vision MAHASAGAR" and India's shared commitment to the Global South. He said the two sides were expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, adding, "Together, we will work to advance the progress of our peoples, and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region." During the visit, the prime minister is also scheduled to address the Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.

With PTI Inputs

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