Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a state dinner hosted by Seychelles’ President Patrick Herminie. Credit: Republic of Seychelles website
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (June 27, 2026) described the India-Seychelles friendship as “steady, strong and long-lasting” and said the two countries would “together win the race” as he addressed a state dinner hosted by the archipelagic nation’s President Patrick Herminie.
PM Modi arrived in Seychelles earlier in the day on a three-day official visit, during which he will attend the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles as the Guest of Honour and hold talks with President Herminie.
“The friendship between India and Seychelles has progressed steady, strong and long-lasting, and together we will win the race,” Mr. Modi said at the state dinner, according to a statement by Seychelles’ Office of the President.
Addressing the dinner, President Herminie affirmed the enduring bond between the two nations.
“India has been a steadfast friend to Seychelles, a sentiment warmly reciprocated by our people and our vibrant Indian diaspora,” he said.
The dinner was attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Seychelles Speaker of the National Assembly Azarel Ernesta, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora Barry Faure, among others, the statement said.
“Seychelles and India have maintained close and mutually beneficial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1976, with India remaining a committed development partner across sectors including infrastructure, defence, health, and maritime security,” it added.
Earlier, Mr. Modi handed over a ‘Made in India’ fast patrol vessel to the Seychelles’ coast guard, reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s maritime security capabilities.
“The transfer of the Fast Patrol Vessel Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard marks another important milestone in the growing India-Seychelles partnership in defence and maritime security,” he posted on X.
He further said, “It is also the latest in a series of capability-building initiatives that reflect India’s steadfast commitment to supporting the security priorities of Seychelles.” Upon arrival at the Seychelles International Airport, Modi was given a grand welcome by Herminie and a high-level delegation.
The prime minister also received a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
The two sides are expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Published – June 28, 2026 01:05 am IST
