Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Sunday reaffirmed that the East African island nation holds a special place in India's MAHASAGAR vision, while welcoming discussions on a $175 million Special Economic Package (SEP) from India. The announcement came during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's three-day state visit to Seychelles, which began on June 27.
Maritime Security Central to Bilateral Ties
Addressing a joint press statement after delegation-level talks, President Herminie emphasized that maritime security in the Indian Ocean remains central to the bilateral relationship. "As maritime neighbours, security in the Indian Ocean region remains central to our relationship. We reaffirmed Seychelles' special place in India's MAHASAGAR vision. We affirmed our commitment to counter piracy, drug trafficking, illegal fishing and cross-border crime," Herminie said.
The Seychelles President acknowledged India's continued support in strengthening the country's maritime capabilities through surveillance, hydrography, and defence capacity building. He specifically noted the refit of PS Zoroaster and the gifting of the fast attack vessel PS Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard.
Development Partnership and Special Economic Package
Highlighting development cooperation, Herminie said India's partnership with Seychelles has remained aligned with the island nation's priorities. "Development Partnership has been a strong pillar of India-Seychelles relations, guided by Seychelles' priorities. I was especially pleased to pursue discussions on the announcement of the Special Economic Package of USD 175 million from the Government of India, comprising USD 125 million in a rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance," he added.
The Special Economic Package is designed to support Seychelles' developmental goals and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
Understanding the MAHASAGAR Vision
MAHASAGAR is India's expanded vision for the Global South, standing for "Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions." It builds on the earlier SAGAR framework and broadens cooperation beyond the immediate region to a global scale. The vision focuses on promoting trade for development, strengthening capacity building for sustainable growth, and ensuring mutual security for a shared future.
This vision underscores India's commitment to its maritime neighbours, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region, and aligns with Seychelles' strategic priorities.
PM Modi's State Visit and Handover of Assets
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Victoria on Saturday afternoon and immediately handed over a 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) PS LESPWAR, along with six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles, and five laser-radial boats to Seychelles. The high-level handover ceremony was held at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in the presence of President Herminie.
The FPV, manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited, is expected to significantly boost Seychelles' maritime security capacity, enhancing its ability to patrol its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and conduct surveillance operations.
Upcoming Golden Jubilee Celebrations
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour. This event marks 50 years of the country's independence from the United Kingdom in 1976. The visit underscores the deep historical and strategic ties between India and Seychelles.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the initiatives reflect the strengthening strategic partnership between the two countries, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region. The delegation-level talks covered areas including maritime security, development partnership, defence, capacity building, and the blue economy.
