Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, 27 June kicked off his State Visit to Seychelles by praising the Indian community's enduring contribution to the island nation's development, calling the diaspora a 'vibrant bridge' between the two countries. Modi arrived in Victoria to attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour.

Modi's tribute to the Indian diaspora

Sharing his impressions on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: 'The Indian community in Seychelles accorded a very warm welcome this evening. Their deep affection for India and enduring contribution to Seychelles' progress are truly admirable. The Indian diaspora has long served as a vibrant bridge between our two nations, strengthening people-to-people ties and enriching our shared journey.'

The warm reception included a Guard of Honour inspection alongside President Patrick Herminie, with national anthems of both countries played on arrival. Modi also witnessed a traditional Seychellois 'moutya' performance, followed by a 'Nrutya' folk dance from Kutch, Gujarat, presented by 18 members of the Seychellois Indian diaspora originally hailing from Kutch — a moment that blended cultural heritage with the spirit of independence.

A partnership spanning five decades

This is Modi's second State Visit to Seychelles, underscoring the depth of ties between the two nations. President Herminie had undertaken a State Visit to India earlier this year. According to the Office of the President of Seychelles, diplomatic relations between the two countries date to 1976, when Seychelles attained independence.

'India remains one of Seychelles' closest and most valued development partners, supporting numerous infrastructure, healthcare, education and community development initiatives while working closely with Seychelles to promote peace, security and stability in the Indian Ocean region,' the Seychelles Presidential Office stated ahead of Modi's arrival.

Key areas of bilateral cooperation

Over the past five decades, India and Seychelles have deepened cooperation across maritime security, defence, healthcare, education, capacity building, climate resilience, sustainable development, and the blue economy. The Indian Ocean region's strategic importance makes this partnership particularly significant for both nations.

What comes next

Prime Minister Modi and President Herminie are expected to hold bilateral discussions aimed at expanding cooperation further. Modi will also participate in official engagements marking Seychelles' Golden Jubilee Independence celebrations — a milestone that gives this visit added diplomatic weight beyond routine bilateral summitry.