NewsVisit – PM Narendra Modi to Strengthen India-Seychelles Partnership During Historic State Visit
NewsVisit – Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for a three-day state visit to Seychelles on Saturday, where he will attend the island nation’s Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour and hold high-level discussions with President Patrick Herminie. The visit is expected to reinforce the long-standing partnership between the two countries while expanding cooperation in maritime security, regional development, and strategic affairs across the Indian Ocean.
Focus on Bilateral Relations and Regional Cooperation
Before departing, Prime Minister Modi described Seychelles as one of India’s trusted maritime neighbours and an important partner under India’s Vision MAHASAGAR initiative. He said the discussions with President Herminie would focus on strengthening the decades-old relationship built on mutual trust, democratic values, and close people-to-people connections.
According to the Prime Minister, both countries share a common vision of promoting peace, security, and economic progress in the Indian Ocean region. He expressed confidence that the visit would further deepen cooperation in areas of shared interest while contributing to stability and prosperity across the region.
National Day Celebrations Mark a Historic Milestone
The visit, scheduled from June 27 to June 29, comes at a significant time as Seychelles celebrates the 50th anniversary of its National Day. Prime Minister Modi will participate in the official Golden Jubilee celebrations, making the occasion particularly meaningful for both nations.
Sharing his thoughts before leaving, Modi said it was an honour to join the celebrations during such a historic year. He also noted that 2026 marks five decades of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, a partnership that has steadily grown through friendship, mutual respect, and regular engagement.
High-Level Talks to Build on Recent Diplomatic Engagement
The Prime Minister said his meetings with President Patrick Herminie would build upon the momentum created during the Seychellois leader’s state visit to India earlier this year. The two sides are expected to review ongoing cooperation and identify new opportunities to strengthen collaboration in strategic, economic, and development sectors.
Indian officials have highlighted Seychelles’ importance as a key maritime partner in the Indian Ocean and an essential part of India’s outreach to countries of the Global South. The discussions are also expected to address regional security and sustainable development initiatives.
First Indian Prime Minister to Address Seychelles National Assembly
During the visit, Narendra Modi will create another milestone by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the National Assembly of Seychelles. He described the opportunity as a reflection of the strong democratic traditions shared by both nations and the growing depth of parliamentary engagement.
The Prime Minister also plans to interact with members of the Indian community living in Seychelles. He acknowledged their longstanding contribution in strengthening cultural ties and maintaining the close friendship between the two countries across generations.
Indian Participation in the Golden Jubilee Events
Officials confirmed that an Indian Armed Forces contingent, along with two Indian Navy ships, will participate in the National Day celebrations. Their presence is expected to underline the close defence and maritime partnership between the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi last visited Seychelles in 2015. Since then, bilateral engagement has continued to expand through cooperation in security, capacity building, infrastructure development, and maritime collaboration. Officials believe the latest visit will provide fresh momentum to the relationship and further strengthen India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean while reinforcing its commitment to regional peace and shared growth.