Why Seychelles Is Crucial to India as PM Modi Begins State Visit

New Delhi, June 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-day State Visit to Seychelles from June 27 to 29, where he will attend the island nation's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour. The visit also marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Although Seychelles is one of India's smallest diplomatic partners by size, it occupies a key position in the western Indian Ocean. The archipelago of 115 islands lies close to major global shipping routes, making it vital for maritime trade and regional security. Seychelles also has an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 1.3 million square kilometres, and India has played a major role in helping the island nation strengthen its maritime surveillance and defence capabilities.

Over the years, India has supplied patrol vessels, interceptor boats, Dornier surveillance aircraft and coastal radar systems to Seychelles, while the Indian Navy regularly conducts hydrographic surveys in the region. The partnership has also expanded beyond defence to include digital governance, renewable energy, healthcare, climate resilience and education.

During Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie's visit to India earlier this year, New Delhi announced a $175 million Special Economic Package to support digital infrastructure and development projects in the island nation.

The two countries also share deep historical ties, with people of Indian origin forming an important part of Seychelles' society for generations. Today, around 15,000 Indians and Indo-Seychellois live in the country, strengthening cultural and economic links.

Modi's visit reflects India's commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and maintaining a secure, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean region.

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