India Strengthens Defence Ties with Seychelles as PM Modi Attends Golden Jubilee
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day State Visit to Seychelles, where he is attending the island nation's 50th National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour. The visit underscores the growing strategic and defence partnership between India and Seychelles.
An Indian Army marching contingent comprising 32 personnel from the Assam Regiment, led by Captain Aryan H. Deolekar, participated in the National Day parade in Victoria. An Indian Navy contingent and a military band also took part in the ceremonial march, symbolising the military camaraderie between the two countries.
On the eve of the celebrations, PM Modi handed over a made-in-India Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) PS LESPWAR to Seychelles President Patrick Herminie. The vessel, built by Goa Shipyard Limited, is intended to strengthen Seychelles' maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities. Additionally, six ambulances, ten utility vehicles, and five laser radial boats were handed over to support the island nation's development and security needs.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, 'Together as partners. Stronger as one. In a special gesture, PM Narendra Modi handed over the Made in India Fast Patrol Vessel PS LESPWAR to President Dr. Patrick Herminie. The FPV will contribute to strengthening Seychelles' maritime surveillance and EEZ patrol capabilities.' The MEA added that the other vehicles and boats would further contribute to Seychelles' development and security, guided by India's Vision MAHASAGAR, which focuses on maritime security and regional stability in the Indian Ocean.
The Ministry of Defence noted that participation of Indian Armed Forces contingents in national celebrations of friendly countries reflects mutual trust and commitment to strengthening bilateral defence ties. 'Such engagements reinforce defence cooperation and underscore India's role as a reliable partner in promoting peace, stability, and security in the Indian Ocean Region,' the ministry said.
India has previously sent military contingents to international ceremonial events, including the Bastille Day Parade in France (2023), Bangladesh's Victory Day Parade (2021), and Russia's Victory Day Parades (2015, 2020).
Upon arrival in Victoria, PM Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour alongside President Herminie. The event also featured cultural performances, including a traditional Seychellois moutya dance and a Gujarati folk dance performed by members of the Indian diaspora originally from Kutch.
This visit marks PM Modi's second State Visit to Seychelles, following President Herminie's earlier visit to India. The two countries have steadily expanded cooperation across defence, maritime security, development, trade, and culture.
