Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Saturday described India as a steadfast friend of Seychelles, reaffirming the strong and enduring partnership between the two countries during a state banquet hosted in honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Victoria.
Addressing the gathering, President Herminie highlighted the close relationship between the two nations and acknowledged India’s continued support to Seychelles over the decades.
“India has been a steadfast friend to Seychelles, a sentiment warmly reciprocated by our people and our vibrant Indian diaspora,” President Herminie said.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Herminie reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening the longstanding partnership between India and Seychelles during the banquet.
The event was attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Speaker of the National Assembly of Seychelles Azarel Ernesta, Seychelles Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora Barry Faure, members of the Cabinet and other dignitaries.
The Office of the President of Seychelles noted that 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, as well as the Golden Jubilee of Seychelles as a Republic, making Prime Minister Modi’s visit particularly significant.
It said the partnership between the two countries has been built on shared democratic values, maritime cooperation and strong people-to-people ties, adding that the Prime Minister’s participation as the Guest of Honour at the National Day celebrations reflects the depth of bilateral relations and the shared vision for the future.
India and Seychelles have maintained close diplomatic ties since 1976, with India emerging as a key development partner in sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, defence, capacity building and maritime security.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Victoria earlier in the day on his second State Visit to Seychelles and was accorded a ceremonial welcome by President Herminie at the airport. The reception was attended by senior dignitaries and members of the Indian community and featured cultural performances celebrating the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
Earlier on Saturday, the Prime Minister handed over the Made-in-India Fast Patrol Vessel ‘Lespwar’, along with 10 utility vehicles, five laser radial boats and six ambulances, to the Government of Seychelles. According to the MEA, the assistance will strengthen Seychelles’ maritime security, defence capabilities and public service infrastructure, further reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two countries.
-IANS
