Securing the seas: PM Modi eyes stronger ties with 'valued partner' Seychelles under Mahasagar vision

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday departed for a three-day visit to Seychelles, during which he will be attending the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Day of the East African country. With the vision MAHASAGAR at the forefront, PM Modi is also expected to have bilateral discussions with President Patrick Herminie to further strengthen the friendship.

In his departure statement, the Indian Premier said that Seychelles is a valued maritime neighbour and a key partner in the ‘Vision MAHASAGAR’. "Seychelles is a valued maritime neighbour and a key partner in our Vision MAHASAGAR and our 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," the official departure statement read.

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"Building on the successful State visit of President Herminie to India in February 2026, I look forward to our discussions aimed at further strengthening our enduring friendship. Together, we will work to advance the progress of our peoples, and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region," PM Modi added.

The prime minister noted that his visit will start from June 27 and will last till June 29. He mentioned that the visit is coming at the invitation of the President of Seychelles, Herminie, during which he will participate in the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles as the Guest of Honour.

How PM Modi will create history

Apart from attending usual ceremonies, PM Modi will also become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the National Assembly of Seychelles. "This historic opportunity reflects the strong democratic values and parliamentary traditions that bind our two nations," he said.

"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 furthered.

PM Modi maintained that he is confident his visit will deepen longstanding ties between the two nations. “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,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, officials noted that a contingent of the Indian armed forces, along with two ships of the Indian Navy, will participate in the celebrations. It is pertinent to note that the Indian prime minister last visited the Asian nation in 2015. India and Seychelles share a longstanding partnership rooted in shared historical, cultural and people-to-people ties.