PM Modi concludes 3-day visit to Seychelles with 'substantive outcomes'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his three-day state visit to Seychelles, marking a significant milestone in India-Seychelles relations with the announcement of 19 agreements aimed at deepening cooperation in defence, maritime security, digital technology, healthcare, agriculture, education and space.
The Prime Minister was seen off at the airport by Seychelles Vice-President Sebastien Pillay and members of the Indian diaspora before departing for India. Describing the visit as productive, Modi said it had yielded "substantive outcomes" that would further strengthen the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
"My visit to Seychelles has been filled with substantive outcomes that will boost the India-Seychelles friendship," Modi said in a post on X, adding that the relationship built over the past 50 years will now move forward with a focus on innovation, sustainability and shared prosperity.
During the visit, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to enhancing strategic cooperation and advancing a shared vision for a secure, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean region.
The two nations unveiled 19 outcomes covering critical sectors, including defence, maritime security, digital payments, space cooperation, healthcare, agriculture and education, reflecting the expanding scope of bilateral ties.
Prime Minister Modi also attended Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour, commemorating the country's 50 years of Independence. He described it as a privilege to participate in the landmark celebrations, highlighting the close historical and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
In another key engagement, Modi addressed the National Assembly of Seychelles, where he called for stronger global cooperation to tackle climate change through principles of fairness, responsibility and equity. He stressed the importance of supporting developing nations in addressing climate challenges while ensuring sustainable development.
Recognising his contributions to environmental sustainability and advocacy for the Global South, President Patrick Herminie conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the prestigious 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon' award during the visit.
The Ministry of External Affairs described the visit as a landmark in India-Seychelles relations. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the visit reinforced the shared commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors while promoting peace, security and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region.
The visit also reaffirmed India's strategic engagement with island nations in the Indian Ocean and underscored New Delhi's commitment to strengthening partnerships in the region through development, connectivity and security cooperation.
