Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 28 June addressed the National Assembly of Seychelles during his state visit to the archipelago, declaring that one in every 50 people in Seychelles has undergone some form of training in India. The address marked a significant moment in the bilateral relationship, underscoring decades of human capital exchange between the two nations.

Decades of People-to-People Ties

'The future of Seychelles will be shaped by its youth,' Modi told the assembly. 'We are proud that students, professionals, officials, and security forces of Seychelles have trained and studied in India for decades. In fact, it is said that one in every fifty people in Seychelles has undergone some training in India. They have returned home with skills, friendships, and experiences that continue to strengthen our partnership today.'

The statistic, while striking, reflects a long-standing pattern of Indian capacity-building across the Indian Ocean island states — a strategic pillar of New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine.

Digital Cooperation and Youth Internships

Modi expressed enthusiasm for Seychelles' IGNITE initiative, which provides internships for young Seychellois, calling it 'an excellent framework' and suggesting both countries explore new avenues of collaboration in the sector.

He further highlighted India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a model worth sharing. 'India's DPI has demonstrated how technology can expand opportunity, improve governance, boost financial inclusion, and deliver services for hundreds of millions of people,' he said, adding that India would be 'happy to share our experiences and expertise' as Seychelles pursues its own digital transformation.

Global South and Multilateral Vision

Modi drew a direct line between the bilateral partnership and a broader multilateral vision. He cited India's G20 Presidency as an example of efforts to place the priorities of the Global South at the centre of international discourse, and pointed to the inclusion of the African Union (AU) as a permanent G20 member as a concrete outcome of that spirit.

'We both seek a world where international institutions reflect contemporary realities. We believe that our shared future must be shaped collectively, inclusively, and fairly,' Modi said. He framed the India-Seychelles relationship as an expression of this shared vision — one he said both countries would 'continue to advance together.'

India's Commitment as a Trusted Partner

Closing his address, Modi offered an unequivocal assurance of continued partnership. 'India will remain your trusted partner. We will celebrate your achievements. We will support your aspirations. And we will stand beside you as friends,' he said.

The address comes as India deepens its maritime engagement across the Indian Ocean Region, with Seychelles occupying a strategically important position in those efforts. With youth cooperation, digital transformation, and multilateral reform all on the table, the visit signals a broadening of an already substantive relationship.