Modi Holds High-Level Bilateral Talks on State Visit to Seychelles

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced high-level bilateral talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in Victoria on Sunday. The diplomatic summit aims to solidify strategic defence, economic, and digital cooperation between the two Indian Ocean nations as they celebrate half a century of formal diplomatic relations.

As part of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s State Visit to Seychelles from 27-29 June 2026, Prime Minister and the President of Seychelles, H.E. Dr. Patrick Herminie today held official talks at the State House in Victoria, Mahe.

The talks covered the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with the leaders agreeing to further strengthen cooperation in health, education, capacity building, digital transformation, sustainable development, social infrastructure, renewable energy, maritime security and defence. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including challenges in the Indian Ocean region, such as illegal fishing, drug trafficking and piracy. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the progress made in the implementation of projects and initiatives under the Special Economic Package announced by India. Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the development priorities of Seychelles and to further deepen the close and enduring partnership between the two countries.

Following the official talks, both leaders released a joint commemorative logo marking 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Several MoUs/agreements in the fields of Capacity Building, UPI, Health, Agriculture, Shipping, Space, Extradition and Line of Credit were exchanged thereafter. The amount of the Line of Credit stands at INR 1250 crores. In addition, several announcements in the fields of food security, infrastructure, health, vocational training, maritime security and defence were made in support of the development needs of Seychelles. Seychelles also announced that it is joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure .

Later in the day, Prime Minister addressed an Extraordinary Sitting of the National Assembly of Seychelles, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so. In his address, he highlighted the historical bonds of friendship between India and Seychelles and underscored the shared values of democracy, rule of law and people-centric governance that guide the two countries. He noted that mutual trust and close cooperation have shaped a robust partnership spanning development cooperation, maritime security, technology, innovation, health and capacity building. Prime Minister also called for enhanced parliamentary exchanges between the two democracies.

The Leader of Opposition of Seychelles, H.E. Mr. Bernard Georges, also called on Prime Minister. The two leaders discussed India-Seychelles bilateral ties and conveyed their strong support to further build the special friendship between the two countries.

History of India-Seychelles Diplomatic Solidarity

The deep-rooted strategic partnership between New Delhi and Victoria stretches back five decades. At the dawn of Seychelles’ independence in 1976, the Indian Naval Ship INS Nilgiri was present in Port Victoria as a powerful mark of friendship and diplomatic solidarity.

Five decades later, this maritime commitment remains unchanged. As Seychelles celebrates its Golden Jubilee National Day marking 50 years of independence from the United Kingdom, Indian naval vessels INS Ikshak and INS Tarkash are docked at Port Victoria. Simultaneously, an Assam Rifles contingent and an Indian Navy marching band are participating directly in the national celebrations, mirroring a long-standing tradition of joint security cooperation.

During this high-profile visit, Seychelles also conferred its highest award for environmental leadership, the ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’, upon Prime Minister Modi, recognizing his global commitment to green growth, sustainable development, and oceanic preservation.

FAQs

What is the total value of the Line of Credit India extended to Seychelles in 2026?

India extended a Line of Credit worth INR 1250 crores to Seychelles during the official state visit to fund development and economic infrastructure projects.

What military assets did India gift to the Seychelles Defence Forces?

Prime Minister Modi handed over a fast patrol vessel named LESPWAR, meaning hope in Creole, alongside 10 utility vehicles and 5 laser radial boats to upgrade the capabilities of the special Seychelles Defence Forces.

Which global climate initiative did Seychelles join during the bilateral talks?

Seychelles officially announced that it has joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), an international initiative championed by India to promote sustainable development.

Who is the current President of Seychelles that hosted Prime Minister Modi?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was hosted by the President of Seychelles, His Excellency Dr. Patrick Herminie, at the State House in Victoria, Mahe.