Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Sunday, 28 June declared that security in the Indian Ocean remains the cornerstone of the India-Seychelles relationship, as both nations reaffirmed their joint commitment to combating piracy, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and cross-border crime. The announcement came at a joint press conference in Victoria following talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Talks Described as 'Comprehensive and Forward-Looking'

President Herminie characterised his discussions with PM Modi as 'comprehensive and forward-looking', reflecting what he called the deep bonds of friendship and mutual trust between the two nations. He said India and Seychelles have recommitted to a partnership grounded in common geography, shared history, and a collective vision for a stable and prosperous Indian Ocean region.

A key focus of the talks was the implementation of the Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages — a framework adopted by Seychelles earlier this year to provide strategic direction for bilateral cooperation across all sectors. Herminie expressed appreciation for India's support in translating this vision into tangible outcomes.

$175 Million Special Economic Package

A significant outcome of the summit was the announcement of a Special Economic Package of $175 million from the Government of India. The package comprises $125 million in a rupee-denominated line of credit and $50 million in grant assistance. According to President Herminie, the funds will support critical projects spanning social housing, mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security.

Maritime Security and Defence Cooperation

On the security front, both nations reaffirmed Seychelles' special place in India's Mahasagar vision. Herminie acknowledged India's support in maritime surveillance, hydrography, and defence capacity building — specifically citing the refit of PS Zoroaster and the gifting of fast attack vessel PS Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard. Legal instruments covering foreign service, digital banking, health, agriculture, sea flooring, extradition, and space exploration were also concluded during the visit.

Key Milestones: Vocational Centre and Solar Projects

Among the landmark outcomes was the groundbreaking inauguration of the Professional and Technical Education Centre, an India-assisted project aimed at equipping Seychellois youth with world-class vocational training. Additionally, three solar water pumping systems under the International Solar Alliance were inaugurated, underscoring India's support for Seychelles' transition to renewable energy.

Modi Honoured as 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon'

In a notable gesture, President Herminie conferred upon PM Modi the honorary title 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon' — described as the highest honour the Republic of Seychelles bestows upon international dignitaries. The title recognises Modi's exceptional leadership in sustainability, the blue economy, and ocean governance. Herminie called the summit a 'landmark in our bilateral journey', adding that both sides agreed to accelerate action on existing commitments.