PM Modi Begins Landmark Seychelles Visit, Receives Warm Welcome from President Herminie

Victoria, June 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began a three-day State Visit to Seychelles, where he will participate as the Guest of Honour in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the island nation’s National Day and hold high-level engagements aimed at deepening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation across key sectors.

In a special diplomatic gesture, Seychelles President Patrick Herminie personally received Prime Minister Modi at the airport, accompanied by several senior ministers, top government officials and dignitaries. The ceremonial welcome underscored the close and longstanding relationship between India and Seychelles, which this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Shortly after his arrival, Prime Minister Modi shared photographs of the warm reception on social media platform X and expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Seychelles leadership and the Indian community residing in the country.

“Landed in Seychelles. Deeply appreciate the warm welcome extended at the airport by Dr. Patrick Herminie. Seychelles is a valued maritime partner and a close friend in the Indian Ocean. Looking forward to a productive visit aimed at further strengthening our longstanding ties and enhancing cooperation for the benefit of the people of our nations,” the Prime Minister posted.

Ahead of his departure from India, PM Modi had described Seychelles as one of India’s most valued maritime neighbours and an important partner in advancing the country’s Vision MAHASAGAR, which focuses on strengthening maritime cooperation and ensuring peace, security and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean Region.

He also reiterated India’s commitment to working closely with countries of the Global South to address shared developmental challenges and expand mutually beneficial partnerships.

During the June 27-29 visit, Prime Minister Modi will take part in the National Day celebrations commemorating Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee, highlighting the special friendship that has evolved between the two nations over the past five decades.

Reflecting on the milestone, PM Modi noted that India and Seychelles share a relationship founded on mutual trust, democratic values, respect for diversity and strong people-to-people connections.

“This year, we also mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations, which are rooted in mutual trust, shared democratic values, respect for diversity and deep affinity between our peoples,” he had said before embarking on the visit.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold comprehensive bilateral discussions with President Herminie, who visited India in February this year. The talks are expected to focus on expanding cooperation in maritime security, defence, trade, investment, climate resilience, healthcare, education and capacity building.

One of the highlights of the visit will be Prime Minister Modi becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the National Assembly of Seychelles. Describing the occasion as historic, he said the opportunity reflected the strong democratic traditions and parliamentary values shared by both nations.

PM Modi will also interact with members of the Indian diaspora, acknowledging their important contribution in strengthening bilateral ties over several generations.

“I also look forward to interacting with the vibrant Indian community in Seychelles, who have been nurturing the special friendship between India and Seychelles for generations, and serving as a living bridge between our two nations,” he said.

Expressing confidence about the outcome of the visit, the Prime Minister said it would further deepen the longstanding partnership between India and Seychelles while promoting greater maritime cooperation and advancing the shared vision of a secure, peaceful and prosperous Indian Ocean Region.