Modi hands over patrol vessel in Seychelles, boosting maritime security ties

Narendra Modi began his Seychelles visit by handing over the fast patrol vessel Lespwar and meeting President Patrick Herminie. The engagements signal India's push to deepen maritime security, development and environmental cooperation in the Indian Ocean.

In Short

• Modi began a three-day Seychelles visit as National Day Guest of Honour
• He will hold bilateral talks with President Patrick Herminie on key issues
• India also delivered ambulances, utility vehicles and boats to support development

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Seychelles on Saturday on a three-day official visit and handed over the 'Made in India' fast patrol vessel Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard, underlining India's support for the island nation's maritime security. During the visit, Modi is set to hold talks with President Patrick Herminie and attend Seychelles' National Day golden jubilee celebrations as the Guest of Honour.

The two sides are expected to review the full range of bilateral ties and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Ahead of leaving New Delhi, Modi described Seychelles as a valued maritime neighbour and a key partner in the "Vision MAHASAGAR" — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — as well as in India's shared commitment to the Global South.

At the Seychelles International Airport, Modi was received by Herminie and a high-level delegation and was given a ceremonial Guard of Honour. After landing, Modi posted on X, "Seychelles is a valued maritime partner and a close friend in the Indian Ocean. Looking forward to a productive visit aimed at further strengthening our longstanding ties and enhancing cooperation for the benefit of the people of our nations." He was also greeted with dance performances, including one by a group performing a dance from Kutch.

A large number of people from the Indian diaspora gathered outside the airport, waving Indian flags as Modi briefly interacted with several of them. In another post on X, he said, "The Indian community in Seychelles accorded a very warm welcome this evening." He added, "Their deep affection for India and enduring contribution to Seychelles' progress are truly admirable. The Indian diaspora has long served as a vibrant bridge between our two nations, strengthening people-to-people ties and enriching our shared journey."

Later, Modi visited a giant tortoise enclosure at the Seychelles National Botanical Garden with Herminie and joined him for a tree plantation ceremony. The office of the President of Seychelles described it as "a symbolic gesture of environmental cooperation and friendship", highlighting the two countries' shared focus on biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.

Modi and Herminie then took part in the handover ceremony for the fast patrol vessel at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria. Modi said on X, "The transfer of the Fast Patrol Vessel Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard marks another important milestone in the growing India-Seychelles partnership in defence and maritime security." He added, "It is also the latest in a series of capability-building initiatives that reflect India's steadfast commitment to supporting the security priorities of Seychelles."

Modi also handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats, which the Ministry of External Affairs said would further contribute to Seychelles' development and security. In a post on X, the ministry said, "Together as partners. Stronger as one."

PM Modi last visited Seychelles in 2015, while Herminie visited India earlier this year. During the current visit, Modi is also scheduled to address the National Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian diaspora. Before his departure, Modi said, "Together, we will work to advance the progress of our peoples, and promote security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region."

The office of the President of Seychelles said in a statement, "Prime Minister Modi's visit reflects the longstanding friendship and enduring partnership between Seychelles and India, which have enjoyed diplomatic relations since Seychelles attained Independence in 1976." It said the leaders were expected to hold bilateral discussions aimed at further strengthening cooperation, adding, "Over the past five decades, the two countries have continued to strengthen cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including maritime security, defence, healthcare, education, capacity building, climate resilience, sustainable development and the blue economy." Overall, the visit combines political talks, development support and symbolic public engagements as India and Seychelles look to deepen a partnership that spans security, development and people-to-people ties.

With PTI Inputs

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