The timing of the visit carries added significance as Seychelles celebrates 50 years of Independence and both countries mark five decades of diplomatic relations. Leaders on both sides described the partnership as special, time-tested and rooted in shared democratic values, historical linkages and close people-to-people ties.
Comprehensive Talks Across Key Sectors
During their meeting on February 9, Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Herminie on his electoral victory in October 2025. The two leaders held wide-ranging discussions covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including security, development cooperation, trade, climate action and cultural exchanges.
They reaffirmed that India and Seychelles, as close maritime neighbours, play a critical role in promoting peace and stability in the Western Indian Ocean Region. Seychelles was reiterated as an important pillar of India’s Vision MAHASAGAR, aimed at mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions.
Development Partnership and Economic Support
A major outcome of the talks was India’s announcement of a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million for Seychelles. This includes USD 125 million in a Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance to support development projects, capacity building and maritime security initiatives.
President Herminie acknowledged India’s consistent support through lines of credit, grants and high-impact community development projects. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to remain a reliable development partner, with a focus on sustainability, resilience, inclusive growth and defence cooperation.
Health, Food Security and Digital Transformation
The two leaders underscored cooperation in healthcare, with India donating 10 fully equipped ambulances to strengthen emergency medical services in Seychelles. They also agreed to work towards recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia to ensure access to affordable, quality medicines.
Addressing food security concerns, India announced the donation of 1,000 metric tonnes of grains to Seychelles. In the digital sphere, both sides agreed to collaborate on building Digital Public Infrastructure, including digital payments, to support efficient governance and citizen-centric services.
Capacity Building, Climate Action and Renewables
Capacity building emerged as another strong pillar of cooperation. The leaders agreed to expand training programmes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation framework and strengthen institutional linkages in areas such as cybersecurity, finance, marine sciences and renewable energy.
On climate action, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to renewable energy and climate resilience. India agreed to provide technical assistance for power grid management and green mobility, while Seychelles agreed to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
Maritime Security, Trade and Regional Cooperation
Maritime security and defence cooperation were reaffirmed as central to bilateral ties. The leaders agreed to enhance joint surveillance, training and information sharing to address challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing and transnational crime in the Indian Ocean Region.
They also stressed the need to unlock the full potential of trade, investment and tourism, noting the positive impact of increased air connectivity and rising Indian tourist arrivals. Seychelles invited greater participation of Indian businesses across sectors including blue economy, housing and digital technology.
A Forward-Looking Partnership
Concluding the visit, both leaders expressed confidence that the decisions taken would deliver tangible benefits to the people of both nations. President Herminie thanked Prime Minister Modi for the warm hospitality and invited him to visit Seychelles at a mutually convenient time.
The Joint Vision positions the India–Seychelles partnership as a cornerstone for sustainable development, regional security and shared prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
