New Delhi

Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Monday invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the 50th anniversary celebrations of Seychelles’ Independence Day as the Guest of Honour.

The invitation was announced during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi. President Herminie said his visit to India reflected the deep-rooted friendship and mutual respect shared by the two countries.

“This year marks an important milestone in our relations. In June, Seychelles and India will celebrate the golden jubilee of diplomatic ties, which also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Seychelles’ independence. On this occasion, Prime Minister Modi will be invited as the Guest of Honour. We have also shared a common vision for cooperation over the next five years,” Herminie said.

Highlighting the importance of maritime cooperation, the Seychelles President noted that as Indian Ocean nations, both countries place strong emphasis on regional security and stability. He said they reaffirmed their shared responsibility to ensure safety and lawful activity in the western Indian Ocean.

“Our cooperation in maritime surveillance, security and defence capacity-building plays a crucial role in addressing international crime, piracy and maritime threats, while safeguarding critical sea lanes,” he said.

President Herminie also acknowledged India’s support in renewable energy initiatives and climate resilience, while praising the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme for strengthening Seychelles’ institutional capacity and human resources.

He noted that tourism remains central to Seychelles’ economy and said India is emerging as a key market, supported by improved air connectivity. Discussions during the visit also focused on enhancing trade, investment and exploring new areas of collaboration.

Referring to India’s role in health diplomacy, Herminie said the sharing of medical expertise, institutional partnerships and specialised healthcare services has delivered tangible benefits to the people of Seychelles. He also confirmed that the two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding to share successful digital solutions aimed at advancing digital transformation.

During his remarks, Prime Minister Modi welcomed Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave and described defence and maritime cooperation as key pillars of the bilateral partnership.

PM Modi also announced a special economic assistance package worth USD 175 million to support projects in Seychelles across sectors such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, healthcare, defence and maritime security.

“Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. Our initiatives have always been guided by the priorities and needs of Seychelles. Taking this forward, today we announce a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million to support concrete projects in critical sectors,” the Prime Minister said.

Prior to the joint press meet, the two leaders held bilateral discussions. President Herminie also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

Sharing details of the visit on X, the Ministry of External Affairs said Mahatma Gandhi’s principles continue to inspire and guide the India-Seychelles partnership.

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President Herminie arrived in New Delhi on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This marks his first visit to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.