PM Modi in Seychelles: India's vision is to make Indian Ocean an 'Ocean of Opportunity'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India envisions the Indian Ocean as an "Ocean of Opportunity", where maritime security, sustainable development and economic prosperity are built on mutual trust and respect rather than the size of nations.

Speaking after delegation-level talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in Victoria, Modi said the Indian Ocean is a shared space whose security and prosperity are the collective responsibility of all countries in the region. "We believe the Indian Ocean is our shared home. Its security, sustainability and prosperity are our shared responsibility. Our vision is to make the Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity," the Prime Minister said.

Modi, who is on a three-day official visit to Seychelles, said both countries reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The Prime Minister said India and Seychelles also discussed ways to make bilateral economic cooperation more resilient and future-ready.

"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 said.

Earlier in the day, President Patrick Herminie welcomed Prime Minister Modi at the State House with full ceremonial honours before the two leaders held delegation-level talks.

India and Seychelles share longstanding ties based on historical, cultural and people-to-people connections. As one of India's key maritime partners in the Indian Ocean Region, Seychelles occupies a significant place in New Delhi's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and its broader commitment to strengthening cooperation with countries of the Global South.

During the visit, the two nations are expected to deepen cooperation in areas including maritime security, defence, connectivity, trade, capacity building and sustainable development, reaffirming their strategic partnership in the Indian Ocean region.