PM Modi to Attend Seychelles Golden Jubilee National Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to embark on a State visit to Seychelles from June 27 to 29, 2026, to participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the nation's National Day as the Guest of Honour. The visit follows an invitation extended by Seychelles President Patrick Herminie.
High-Level Talks and Parliamentary Address
According to an official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), PM Modi will hold high-level discussions with President Herminie to review the entire gamut of bilateral cooperation and exchange perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual significance. Additionally, PM Modi is slated to address the Seychelles National Assembly and engage with members of the Indian diaspora.
Strengthening Maritime and Digital Partnerships
The MEA noted that India and Seychelles share a longstanding partnership rooted in shared historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. As a key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean region, Seychelles holds a special place in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and the country's commitment to the Global South. The visit will reaffirm the robust and enduring friendship between the two nations and reinforce their joint commitment to elevate bilateral partnership across all sectors.
Earlier in April, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met his Seychellois counterpart Barry Faure on the margins of the 9th Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius, reiterating New Delhi's resolve to assist Victoria in navigating its prevailing economic challenges. Jaishankar posted on social media platform X: "Great meeting with FM Barry Faure of Seychelles on the sidelines of the 9th Indian Ocean Conference. India is committed to supporting Seychelles in meeting current economic challenges. Welcomed the steps in implementing the Special Economic Package."
Follow-Up to President Herminie's February Visit
The visit follows the Seychelles President's six-day State visit to India in February, during which President Herminie and PM Modi reviewed the comprehensive bilateral relationship and agreed to collaborate closely in the realm of digital transformation. Acknowledging Seychelles' requirement to digitise governance to benefit its citizens, India committed to supporting the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), encompassing digital payment frameworks customised to the needs of Seychelles.
Under the framework of the 'Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages' (SESEL) adopted by the two nations, PM Modi reiterated India's commitment to remaining a dependable partner in Seychelles' national development journey, prioritising sustainability, defence, maritime security, capacity building, resilience and inclusive growth.
Special Economic Package Worth USD 175 Million
Reaffirming their commitment to work closely to expand and intensify the people-centric development partnership, India announced a 'Special Economic Package' of USD 175 million. This includes blended financial assistance of USD 125 million in a Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in Grant assistance for development cooperation projects, capacity building for civilians and defence officials, maritime security, and other areas.
