New Delhi witnessed a landmark diplomatic engagement on Monday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie. The meeting underscored the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, transcending mere diplomacy.
PM Modi warmly welcomed the visiting dignitary, congratulating him on his election as President on behalf of India’s 1.4 billion people. This visit marks Herminie’s first official trip to India as head of state, coinciding with Seychelles’ 50th Independence Day and the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations.
‘These milestones will inspire us to reach new heights,’ PM Modi stated in a joint address. He highlighted how the waves of the Indian Ocean have connected the peoples of India and Seychelles for centuries, fostering trade, cultural exchanges, and traditions of trust along its shores.
The leaders discussed bolstering economic cooperation, agreeing to explore opportunities in local currency trade, fintech, and digital solutions. Development partnership remains the bedrock of India-Seychelles relations, tailored to Seychelles’ priorities.
In a significant announcement, PM Modi unveiled a $175 million economic package to support projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defense, and maritime security. These initiatives promise new employment and skill opportunities, especially for Seychelles’ youth.
An MoU was signed today for training Seychelles civil servants in India, while India pledged to share its digital transformation expertise. In health, India reaffirmed its role as a reliable partner, vowing continued collaboration.
This meeting not only celebrates shared history but charts a prosperous future, reinforcing India’s commitment to its ocean neighborhood under the vision of SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region.