The President of Seychelles, Patrick Herminie, expressed gratitude towards India for its enduring friendship during a banquet held in honor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official state visit to the Archipelagic island. President Herminie highlighted the strong bond between the two nations, emphasizing the warm sentiments reciprocated by the people and the Indian diaspora. Both leaders, at the banquet, reiterated their commitment to strengthening the partnership between India and Seychelles.
The event was graced by the presence of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Seychelles’ Speaker of the National Assembly Azarel Ernesta, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Barry Faure, and other dignitaries. The year 2026 holds special significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and India, characterized by shared democratic values, maritime cooperation, and enduring people-to-people ties. The joint celebrations of Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee as a Republic and five decades of bilateral friendship added symbolic weight to the visit.
Seychelles and India have nurtured strong ties since establishing diplomatic relations in 1976, with India serving as a committed development partner across various sectors such as infrastructure, defense, health, and maritime security. Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Victoria, his second State Visit to Seychelles, commenced with a formal welcome ceremony, where he was greeted by President Herminie and witnessed vibrant cultural performances showcasing the deep people-to-people connections between the two nations.
During a special function, Prime Minister Modi presented the Fast Patrol Vessel ‘Lespwar’ (‘Hope’ in Creole) to President Herminie as a gift for the Seychelles government. Additionally, 10 utility vehicles, 5 laser radial boats, and 6 ambulances were handed over, aimed at bolstering Seychelles’ maritime security and defense capabilities, as highlighted by the Ministry of External Affairs.
