India, Seychelles Sign Extradition Treaty and 8 Other Pacts During PM Modi's Visit
India and Seychelles signed nine agreements, including an extradition treaty aimed at combating transnational crime, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to the island nation on June 28. The agreements were finalized after bilateral talks between Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie.
The extradition treaty is part of efforts to enhance legal cooperation between the two countries. Other pacts covered areas such as maritime security, development cooperation, clean energy, health, and crime prevention.
Speaking at the Seychelles National Assembly, Modi underscored the shared values of democracy, rule of law, and people-centric governance that guide both nations. He stressed that climate action must be fair, responsible, and equitable, noting that the Global South, especially small island developing states, bears the brunt of climate change despite contributing the least to it.
'The effects of climate change are already visible on our coastlines, in the marine ecosystem, in weather patterns, and in our communities,' Modi said. He reiterated that countries which have contributed the least to climate change should not bear the greatest burden of its consequences, calling this the essence of climate justice.
On maritime security, Modi stated that India envisions an Indian Ocean where security is accompanied by increased economic prosperity. 'Our partnerships are based on mutual respect and trust, not size, and we move together with every country,' he said.
President Herminie appreciated India's special economic package of $175 million, comprising a $125 million rupee-denominated line of credit and $50 million in grant aid to support priority projects. An MoU for an umbrella line of credit of Rs 1,250 crore was also signed.
Modi proposed direct shipping links, increased trade in local currencies, and greater connectivity to promote trade and tourism between the two nations. A comprehensive economic partnership agreement was also discussed.
The visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of India-Seychelles diplomatic relations and Seychelles' Golden Jubilee. Modi participated in the National Day Parade on June 28, 2026. He was also conferred the title 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon' by the Seychelles government, recognizing his contributions to ocean conservation and maritime cooperation.
Modi emphasized that the Indian Ocean connects rather than separates the two countries, and that India views Seychelles as much more than a group of islands. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the interests of the Global South and making international institutions more reflective of contemporary realities.
