India and Seychelles Strengthen Maritime Ties and Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave on February 9, 2026, during a joint press conference with President Patrick Herminie. This milestone marks a significant step in strengthening maritime and security ties between India and Seychelles, both key players in the Indian Ocean region.

President Herminie arrived in New Delhi on February 8, 2026, completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. This visit is particularly notable as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, having begun in 1976.

In his address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that “defence cooperation and maritime security are important pillars” of the relationship. He underscored the importance of the blue economy as a natural area for collaboration, stating that India would share its expertise in marine research and capacity building with Seychelles.

The Prime Minister announced the launch of the India-Seychelles Joint Vision, which aims to serve as a roadmap for future cooperation. As part of this initiative, he reiterated India’s commitment to assist Seychelles in various sectors, including renewable energy, healthcare, and digital transformation.

Strategic Developments

During the press conference, Prime Minister Modi outlined several strategic outcomes intended to enhance India-Seychelles relations. These include the establishment of a Hydrographic Unit in Seychelles to support blue economy initiatives and improve maritime domain awareness. The two nations also agreed on a memorandum for pharmacopoeial cooperation, facilitating access to affordable Indian medicines in Seychelles.

In a gesture of goodwill, India is gifting ten ambulances and ten utility vehicles to Seychelles, alongside five sets of Laser Radial class boats to enhance the capabilities of the Seychelles Defence Forces. Additionally, a special economic package of $175 million was announced to support social housing, vocational training, and e-mobility projects in Seychelles.

Modi indicated that these initiatives would create new employment opportunities, particularly for the youth of Seychelles, reinforcing the developmental partnership that has characterized India-Seychelles relations.

Expanding Cultural and Economic Ties

President Herminie noted the significant contributions of the Indian community in Seychelles, which have fostered strong social and economic ties. He invited Prime Minister Modi to be the Guest of Honour at the 50th anniversary of Seychelles’ Independence Day, which further highlights the enduring friendship between the two nations.

The discussions also touched on enhancing trade, investment, and tourism opportunities, with emphasis on the growing market for Indian tourists in Seychelles. The President praised the ITEC program, acknowledging its role in strengthening Seychelles’ institutional capabilities.

As maritime neighbours, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting safety and stability in the Indian Ocean. They emphasized the importance of cooperation in maritime surveillance and security, crucial for countering piracy and safeguarding critical sea lanes.

The outcomes from this visit reflect a shared vision for a sustainable future, bolstered by cultural exchanges and collaborative projects aimed at fostering economic growth and security in the region.

Both leaders expressed optimism that the strengthened ties will pave the way for a prosperous future, with mutual respect and cooperation at the core of India-Seychelles relations.