Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined India's vision for the Indian Ocean during his address to the National Assembly of Seychelles on Tuesday, emphasizing that 'Our vision is to make the Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity'. As reported by Business Standard, Modi stated that 'We believe the Indian Ocean is our shared home. Its security, sustainability and prosperity are our shared responsibility.' The Prime Minister emphasized that 'We want to make Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity' where maritime security is ensured alongside economic prosperity, with partnerships based on mutual respect and trust rather than size. Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to climate justice, stating that 'Climate action must be guided by fairness, responsibility and equity. This is the essence of climate justice.' He emphasized that 'Seychelles and India both seek a world where development is more inclusive,' adding that 'Those who have contributed the least to climate change should not bear the greatest burden of its consequences.' The Prime Minister concluded by declaring that 'India will remain your trusted partner.'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Seychelles on Saturday for a three-day state visit and handed over a 'Made in India' fast patrol vessel to the Seychelles Coast Guard, reaffirming New Delhi's commitment to strengthening the archipelagic nation's maritime security capabilities. According to reports from NDTV, Modi posted on X: "The transfer of the Fast Patrol Vessel Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard marks another important milestone in the growing India-Seychelles partnership in defence and maritime security." He further emphasized that "It is also the latest in a series of capability-building initiatives that reflect India's steadfast commitment to supporting the security priorities of Seychelles." The handover ceremony took place at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria, with Modi and President Herminie participating in the symbolic transfer of the naval asset.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Seychelles on Saturday for a three-day state visit, receiving a grand welcome from President Patrick Herminie and a high-level delegation at the Seychelles International Airport. According to reports from NDTV, he was received by Seychelles President Patrick Herminie and senior government officials, with the prime minister also accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour on arrival. The welcome ceremony featured a series of cultural performances, including a traditional dance from Kutch, which PM Modi described as an 'amazing cultural connect' in his social media post. In a post on X, the Prime Minister thanked the Seychellois leadership for the warm reception, describing Seychelles as a valued maritime partner and close friend in the Indian Ocean. "Landed in Seychelles. Deeply appreciate the warm welcome extended at the airport by Dr. Patrick Herminie. Seychelles is a valued maritime partner and a close friend in the Indian Ocean. Looking forward to a productive visit aimed at further strengthening our longstanding ties and enhancing cooperation for the benefit of the people of our nations," PM Modi posted on X. The visit, which will continue until June 29, comes at the invitation of President Herminie and is particularly significant as India and Seychelles are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.
During the visit, Modi handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to Seychelles, which would further contribute to the island nation's development and security capabilities, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. As reported by NDTV, the "Together as partners. Stronger as one" initiative demonstrates India's comprehensive support for Seychelles' infrastructure and security needs. The visit places renewed focus on India's ties with Seychelles, a strategically located Indian Ocean archipelago and valued maritime neighbour in New Delhi's regional outreach. "The Indian community in Seychelles accorded a very warm welcome this evening," Modi said in another post on X, adding that "Their deep affection for India and enduring contribution to Seychelles' progress are truly admirable. The Indian diaspora has long served as a vibrant bridge between our two nations, strengthening people-to-people ties and enriching our shared journey."
During the delegation-level talks, Modi and Herminie discussed making bilateral economic cooperation more resilient and future-ready, as reported by Business Standard. The Prime Minister stated that '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.' As a key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean region, Seychelles holds a special place in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and its commitment to the Global South. The visit underlines India's continued engagement with island nations in the Indian Ocean under the Mahasagar vision, which focuses on regional security, sustainable development and deeper strategic cooperation. "Together, we will work to advance the progress of our peoples, and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region," Modi said before departure. The two leaders are expected to review bilateral cooperation and discuss regional and global issues, with the visit expected to give fresh momentum to bilateral relations as both countries seek to deepen cooperation across maritime security, development, trade and regional connectivity in the Indian Ocean.
