PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Seychelles President Herminie, focus on deepening ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held bilateral talks with Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie at the State House in Victoria as part of his three-day official visit to the East African island nation.

The meeting comes amid efforts by both countries to further strengthen their longstanding partnership across defence, maritime security, development and people-to-people ties.

Before the bilateral meeting, PM Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the State House. He was welcomed by President Herminie, following which the two leaders participated in official ceremonial proceedings before beginning their discussions.

PM Modi is visiting Seychelles from June 27 to 29 at the invitation of President Herminie. During the visit, he will also attend the country's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations on Monday as the Guest of Honour.

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Seychelles is marking 50 years of its independence from the United Kingdom, which it achieved in 1976.

Focus on strengthening bilateral partnership

The meeting between the two leaders is aimed at expanding cooperation in key sectors, including maritime security, defence, capacity building, infrastructure, healthcare and development partnership.

India and Seychelles share close strategic ties, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region, where both countries have worked together to promote maritime security and regional stability.

The Prime Minister's visit is expected to give fresh momentum to the partnership and reaffirm India's commitment to its trusted maritime partner.

PM Modi arrived in Seychelles on Saturday and was personally received at the airport by President Herminie, along with senior cabinet ministers and government officials. The special reception reflected the close diplomatic ties between the two nations.

India hands over 'Made in India' patrol vessel

One of the key highlights of the visit was the handover of the 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), PS LESPWAR, to Seychelles. The vessel was formally presented by PM Modi to President Herminie during a ceremony at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria.

Manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited, the patrol vessel is expected to strengthen Seychelles' maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities.

In addition to the vessel, India also gifted six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to support the island nation's security and public service infrastructure.

Cultural and environmental engagement

On the opening day of his visit, PM Modi also visited the Seychelles National Botanical Garden, accompanied by President Herminie.

The Prime Minister's engagements over the three-day visit are expected to further deepen India's ties with Seychelles and reinforce cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly in the strategically important Indian Ocean region.