Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday underlined India’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Seychelles during high-level talks with President Patrick Herminie in the island nation’s capital, Victoria. The visit marked another important step in strengthening India’s engagement with the strategically significant Indian Ocean nation.
The two leaders held delegation-level discussions covering a wide range of issues, including maritime security, climate change, trade, healthcare, education, digital connectivity and capacity building. Several agreements were signed to expand cooperation and reinforce the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
Speaking after the talks, Modi said Seychelles remains one of India’s closest partners in the Indian Ocean and reaffirmed New Delhi’s support for the country’s development priorities. He stressed that both nations share common interests in ensuring peace, stability and sustainable growth across the region.
Climate change emerged as one of the key themes of the visit. Modi highlighted the growing challenges faced by island nations due to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. He said countries like Seychelles are among the most vulnerable to climate change and called for stronger global cooperation to help small island states build resilience and protect their future.
Maritime cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions. Both leaders agreed to strengthen collaboration in safeguarding the Indian Ocean, tackling piracy, illegal fishing and other maritime threats. India has remained a key defence partner for Seychelles through training programmes, coastal surveillance support and capacity-building initiatives.
President Patrick Herminie welcomed Modi’s visit and described India as a trusted friend that has consistently supported Seychelles in its development journey. He said the agreements signed during the visit would open new opportunities in infrastructure, renewable energy, healthcare and economic cooperation.
The leaders also emphasised stronger people-to-people ties, with greater collaboration in education, technology and skill development expected to benefit both countries.
Modi’s visit reflects India’s growing focus on strengthening partnerships with Indian Ocean nations under its regional outreach strategy. Analysts believe the visit will further boost bilateral ties while reinforcing cooperation on shared challenges such as maritime security, climate resilience and sustainable development in the region.
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