PM Modi Holds Talks with Seychelles President Herminie in New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday, reinforcing the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. This high-level engagement is part of President Herminie's ongoing State Visit to India, which commenced on Sunday and is scheduled to continue until February 10.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Strategic Partnerships
Earlier in the day, President Herminie paid his respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, a symbolic gesture highlighting the shared values between India and Seychelles. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also called upon the Seychelles President, expressing appreciation for his support towards India's Vision MAHASAGAR. This vision underscores India's commitment to maritime cooperation and collaboration with the Global South.
The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized Seychelles' strategic importance, describing it as a key maritime neighbour and a vital partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR. This visit is particularly significant as it coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, marking a milestone in their longstanding partnership.
Comprehensive Engagements Across Key Sectors
Prior to his arrival in the national capital, President Herminie completed a series of engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. In Chennai, he met with key stakeholders to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in governance, industry, coastal management, and health. A notable meeting included discussions with Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman of SIMS Hospital, and Seychelles Minister of Health Marvin Nolan Fanny.
The focus was on developing a collaborative roadmap to strengthen healthcare services in Seychelles through sustainable solutions such as:
- Super-speciality medical outreach programs
- Hospital infrastructure development
- Digital health integration initiatives
- Workforce support and training
- Affordable medicines and dialysis expansion
In Mumbai, President Herminie participated in the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable, where he met with Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. The discussions aimed at exploring investment opportunities and cooperation in maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development, further solidifying economic ties between the two nations.
Upcoming High-Level Meetings and Future Prospects
During his stay in New Delhi, President Herminie is expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold detailed discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These talks are anticipated to focus on strengthening bilateral relations and exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
This visit marks President Herminie's first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025, highlighting the renewed emphasis on deepening the India-Seychelles partnership. The engagements across multiple cities reflect a comprehensive approach to cooperation, spanning healthcare, maritime affairs, and economic development, setting a positive trajectory for the next 50 years of diplomatic relations.
