PM Modi leaves for Seychelles on three-day visit to deepen maritime ties, attend National Day celebrations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday departed for a three-day State Visit to Seychelles, where he will attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the island nation's National Day as the Guest of Honour and hold talks aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.

The visit, scheduled from June 27 to 29, marks Modi's first trip to Seychelles since 2015 and coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. As part of the celebrations, an Indian defence contingent and two Indian Navy ships will also participate in the National Day events.

Before his departure, Modi said Seychelles remains a key maritime partner for India and occupies an important place in New Delhi's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), as well as its engagement with the Global South.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "Leaving for Seychelles, where I will take part in their National Day celebrations. This year, it is even more special because it is the Golden Jubilee celebrations. Seychelles is a valued maritime neighbour and a key partner in our Vision MAHASAGAR, as well as in advancing the interests of the Global South.”

“I look forward to discussions with my friend, Dr. Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles. I am honoured to be addressing the National Assembly of Seychelles during the visit. I also look forward to meeting the Indian community there,” he added.

During the visit, Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Patrick Herminie to review the full spectrum of bilateral ties and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. He is also scheduled to address the National Assembly of Seychelles, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so, and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.

Speaking about the parliamentary address, Modi said, "This historic opportunity reflects the strong democratic values and parliamentary traditions that bind our two nations."

The Prime Minister also underlined the role of the Indian community in strengthening bilateral ties, saying, "I also look forward to interacting with the vibrant Indian community in Seychelles, who have been nurturing the special friendship between India and Seychelles for generations and serving as a living bridge between our two nations."

The visit comes a few months after Seychelles President Patrick Herminie visited India in February this year and is expected to reaffirm the longstanding partnership between the two countries, rooted in historical, cultural and people-to-people ties.