Prime Minister Narendra Modi expanded bilateral economic and maritime defense ties with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie during a state visit to Victoria on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
The meeting marked 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
India delivered a custom-built Fast Patrol Vessel named PS LESPWAR to the Seychelles Coast Guard, along with multiple utility vehicles and emergency ambulances.
During a joint press conference, Modi disclosed that negotiations are progressing on a previously announced $175 million special economic development package.
This package is designed to fund local infrastructure, social housing, education, and defense initiatives.
"Under this initiative, work is being carried out in sectors such as social housing, transport, skill development, food security, education, and defense," said Modi.
The prime minister emphasized that regional defense ties remain interdependent while outlining a strategic framework for sustaining mutual economic growth across neighboring maritime territories.
"Our vision is to make the Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity," Modi said.
He reiterated that regional security must remain a cooperative endeavor for both democratic nations.
"We believe the Indian Ocean is our shared home. Its security, sustainability and prosperity are our shared responsibility," he added.
President Herminie presented Modi with the 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon' distinction, an honor the prime minister accepted on behalf of global communities combating ecological degradation.
"I humbly accept this honour and dedicate it to all those countries that are fighting the challenge of climate change and consider environmental protection their responsibility towards future generations," Modi said.
Following these exchanges, Modi outlined plans to export domestic technological frameworks to the island nation to improve local commercial operations and public services.
"We will share India's successful experience in Digital Public Infrastructure with Seychelles," he said.
Modi noted that both administrations intend to pursue deeper corporate integration and transport connectivity to support long-term economic resilience.
"We believe the defence and security of India and Seychelles are integral to each other," he noted.
The prime minister concluded by highlighting forthcoming investments aimed at bridging the commercial sectors of both countries.
"We will continue to explore new opportunities for the industries of both our countries. Work will also be done to enhance connectivity between India and Seychelles," he added.
The state visit concludes with Modi participating as the guest of honor at the Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations on Monday, June 29, 2026, marking 50 years of Seychelles' independence.
