Seychelles: In a major boost to bilateral relations in the Indian Ocean region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the State House in Victoria on Sunday. The Prime Minister is currently on a high-profile three-day official visit to the East African island nation at the invitation of Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie. The high-level state visit aims to reinforce the longstanding strategic and cultural partnership between the two democracies, celebrating fifty years of diplomatic relations.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in the capital city on Saturday afternoon and was personally welcomed on the tarmac by President Herminie, along with senior cabinet ministers and top government officials in a special diplomatic gesture. The arrival ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances, including a traditional dance from the Kutch region of Gujarat to honour the visiting leader. Following the welcome, the Prime Minister visited the Seychelles National Botanical Garden alongside President Herminie, where they participated in a environmental engagement by planting a sapling of the rare and iconic Coco de Mer palm tree.
A central highlight of the visit occurred at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base, where Prime Minister Modi handed over a ‘Made in India’ Fast Patrol Vessel named PS Lespwar, which translates to Hope in Creole. Manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited, the specialised maritime vessel is designed to significantly enhance Seychelles’ capabilities in maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone patrolling. Alongside the patrol vessel, India gifted six advanced ambulances, ten versatile utility vehicles, and five laser radial boats to the Seychelles Defence Forces. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasised that the collaborative gesture underscores India’s commitment to regional security under its security framework.
The timing of the diplomatic visit holds deep historical significance as Prime Minister Modi is participating as the Guest of Honour at the Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations of Seychelles on Monday. The event marks exactly fifty years of independence for the island nation from the United Kingdom, achieved in 1976. As part of the upcoming itinerary, the Prime Minister will address the National Assembly of Seychelles, making him the first Indian Prime Minister to do so, before interacting with members of the vibrant Indian diaspora.
