Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Patrick Herminie addressed a joint press meet in India, announcing a new phase in India–Seychelles partnership with major agreements on development, security, and digital cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed a joint press meet with the President of the Seychelles, Patrick Herminie, following bilateral discussions between the two leaders. The meeting took place in India during President Herminie’s first official visit to the country after assuming office.
Welcoming President Herminie and his delegation, the Prime Minister congratulated him on his election and extended warm greetings on behalf of 140 crore Indians. He noted that the visit holds special significance as Seychelles celebrates its 50th Independence Anniversary and the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations.
The Prime Minister said that India–Seychelles ties go beyond diplomacy and are rooted in history, trust, and people-to-people connections shaped over centuries in the Indian Ocean region. He described Seychelles as a close maritime neighbour and an important partner in India’s MAHASAGAR Vision.
During the talks, both sides agreed to further strengthen economic cooperation. The Prime Minister announced a USD 175 million Special Economic Package to support projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. He said these initiatives will create new employment and skill development opportunities, especially for the youth of Seychelles.
The two leaders also agreed to expand trade in local currencies and enhance cooperation in FinTech and digital solutions. Memorandums of Understanding were exchanged on Digital Transformation and on training Seychelles civil servants in India under the ITEC programme.
In the health sector, the Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment as a reliable partner for affordable medicines, medical tourism, and health infrastructure development. Cooperation in renewable energy, climate resilience, and sustainable development was also highlighted as a shared priority.
Maritime security and defence cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. The Prime Minister welcomed Seychelles as a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave, saying it will strengthen coordination and contribute to peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region. Cooperation in the Blue Economy, marine research, data sharing, and capacity building will also be expanded.
Emphasising people-to-people ties, the Prime Minister praised the Indian community in Seychelles for its contribution to the country’s social and economic life. Both leaders discussed strengthening cooperation in tourism, education, culture, sports, and youth exchanges.
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister said that India–Seychelles relations are entering a new phase. An India–Seychelles Joint Vision is being issued, which will serve as a roadmap for future cooperation across all sectors. He thanked President Herminie for his visit and for Seychelles’ continued friendship with India.
