Seychelles visit to enhance maritime cooperation, promote security in Indian Ocean region: PM Modi
New Delhi, June 27
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed confidence that his visit to Seychelles will enhance maritime cooperation while also advancing the vision of a "secure, peaceful and prosperous" Indian Ocean region.
PM Modi is set to embark on a two-day State Visit to Seychelles starting Saturday to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country's National Day as the Guest of Honour.
In his departure statement, PM Modi said, "At the invitation of my friend, H.E. Dr Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles, I will undertake a State Visit to Seychelles from 27-29 June 2026 to participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles as the Guest of Honour."
The Prime Minister 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.
This tour comes just months after Seychelles President Herminie visited India in February 2026. During the visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with Seychelles President Herminie and is also scheduled to address the Seychelles National Assembly and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.
PM Modi said that he looks forward to his discussions with the Seychelles President aimed at further strengthening the "enduring friendship". "Together, we will work to advance the progress of our peoples, and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region," he said.
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
Good to see India taking a lead in the Indian Ocean region. As a Westerner living here, I can see how important these ties are for trade and security. Hope this visit leads to concrete agreements on joint naval exercises and anti-piracy operations.
Love how PM Modi always focuses on the diaspora! 🎉 The Indian community in Seychelles has been contributing for generations, and it's heartwarming to see them being recognized as a "living bridge." Cultural diplomacy is as important as military cooperation.
Two visits in one year? That's impressive! Shows how much importance India gives to Seychelles. But I hope this isn't just photo ops and speeches—we need tangible outcomes like better ports, surveillance sharing, and counter-narcotics cooperation.
India's soft power is unmatched! 🌟 From Ayurveda to Bollywood, we have strong cultural ties with Seychelles. PM Modi addressing their Parliament is a big honor. Hope this boosts tourism and people-to-people connections too.
As someone who studies geopolitics, this is a smart diplomatic move. 🇮🇳🇸🇨 Seychelles is a key partner in India's Indo-Pacific strategy. The focus on "secure, peaceful, prosperous" Indian Ocean is exactly what the region needs—cooperation over confrontation.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.