India and Seychelles Forge Enhanced Partnership with New Agreements and Economic Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie held a significant meeting at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in bilateral relations. The leaders reaffirmed their special partnership as close maritime neighbors, rooted in historical ties, kinship, and shared democratic values. This visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' independence and 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Joint Vision and Key Agreements Signed
Following extensive discussions, India and Seychelles adopted a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL). This framework aims to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors. A series of seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, covering:
- Pharmacopoeial cooperation in the health sector
- Technical and scientific collaboration between meteorological authorities
- A cultural exchange programme for 2026-2030
- Cooperation on digital transformation
- Ocean observation, maritime scientific research, and data sharing
- Capacity-building training programmes for Seychelles civil servants
- Procurement of food items
These agreements underscore a commitment to holistic development and mutual growth.
Defence and Maritime Cooperation as Pillars
During a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that defence and maritime cooperation remain crucial pillars of the India-Seychelles relationship. He highlighted India's willingness to share expertise in marine research, capacity-building, and data-sharing. Modi also welcomed Seychelles as a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave, a regional maritime security grouping initially formed by India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, now expanded to include Mauritius and Bangladesh.
"This will strengthen our efforts for peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and deepen our ties. Together we will shape not just bilateral cooperation, but a shared future for the Indian Ocean," Modi stated.
Special Economic Package Announced
In a major development, Prime Minister Modi announced a Special Economic Package of $175 million for Seychelles. This package comprises $125 million in a rupee-denominated Line of Credit and $50 million as grant assistance. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the funds will support Seychelles' developmental needs in areas such as public housing, mobility, infrastructure, capacity-building, and maritime security.
Focus on Renewable Energy and Climate Solutions
Looking ahead, Modi indicated that future cooperation will extend to renewable energy and climate solutions, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to global challenges. Both leaders underscored that India-Seychelles ties are people-centric and play a vital role in ensuring peace, security, and stability in the Western Indian Ocean Region.
Tourism and Economic Collaboration
President Herminie highlighted tourism as a cornerstone of Seychelles' economy, noting India as a growing market supported by improved air connectivity. He also emphasized the importance of collaboration in maritime surveillance, security, and defence capacity development to counter international crime, piracy, and maritime threats, safeguarding critical sea lanes.
Invitation for 50th Anniversary Celebrations
President Herminie invited Prime Minister Modi to be the Guest of Honour for the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence, an invitation extended during the joint press meet. Modi reiterated that Seychelles is a key pillar of India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
The visit, occurring within the first 100 days of President Herminie's inauguration after his victory in the October 2025 elections, signals the high priority Seychelles places on its relationship with India. This engagement builds on an elaborate architecture of defence and security cooperation that has deepened over the years, addressing threats like piracy and economic offences in the strategic Indian Ocean region.
