PM Modi arrives in Seychelles, receives warm welcome from Prez Herminie and diaspora at airport
Victoria, June 27
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began a three-day State Visit to Seychelles to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country's National Day as the Guest of Honour and further strengthen the bilateral cooperation.
In a special gesture, Seychelles President Patrick Herminie and several top ministers and senior dignitaries welcomed PM Modi at the airport.
Prime Minister Modi also shared some glimpses from the warm welcome at the airport in Seychelles and thanked the Indian diaspora for the affection.
"Landed in Seychelles. Deeply appreciate the warm welcome extended at the airport by Dr. Patrick Herminie. 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," PM Modi wrote on X after his arrival.
Earlier in his departure statement, PM Modi expressed confidence that his visit to Seychelles would enhance maritime cooperation while also advancing the vision of a "secure, peaceful and prosperous" Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
During the June 27-29 visit, PM Modi is scheduled to participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles as the Guest of Honour.
PM Modi said that Seychelles is a "valued maritime neighbour" and a "key partner" in India's 'Vision MAHASAGAR' and the countries' shared commitment to the Global South.
"This year, we also mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations, which are rooted in mutual trust, shared democratic values, respect for diversity and deep affinity between our peoples," he said.
PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with Herminie, who had visited India in February 2026, and is also scheduled to address the Seychelles National Assembly and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.
"Together, we will work to advance the progress of our peoples, and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region," said Prime Minister Modi.
On being set to become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the National Assembly of Seychelles, PM Modi said, "This historic opportunity reflects the strong democratic values and parliamentary traditions that bind our two nations."
"I also look forward to interacting with the vibrant Indian community in Seychelles, who have been nurturing the special friendship between India and Seychelles for generations, and serving as a living bridge between our two nations," he further said.
"I am confident that my visit will further deepen the longstanding bonds between the two countries, enhance maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region, and advance our shared vision of a secure, peaceful and prosperous Indian Ocean region," PM Modi added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Warm reception by the President himself shows how much respect India has earned under Modi ji. Our soft power is unmatched. Looking forward to more maritime security partnerships in the Indian Ocean.
Great to see India expanding its influence. The Indian diaspora everywhere is a testament to our global reach. Hope this visit brings real economic benefits for both countries.
Nice diplomatic move. But we should also question what tangible outcomes come from these visits - trade figures, investment commitments. The photo ops are fine, but results matter more for the common man.
The Indian diaspora in Seychelles is a living bridge indeed! My cousin lives there and says they feel very connected to India. Good to see our PM engaging with them directly.
Impressive that he's addressing the Seychelles National Assembly - first Indian PM to do so! Vision MAHASAGAR is a smart strategy for Indian Ocean security. But hope we also focus on local fishermen's issues in the region.
Beautiful to see the Indian flag flying high in Seychelles. The diaspora's warmth is heartwarming. But I hope the bilateral talks also address climate change impacts on small island nations - they need our help.
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