A New Chapter in India-Seychelles Relations: A Joint Vision ‘SESEL’

At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid an official State Visit to India, giving a new strategic direction to bilateral relations. During this visit, India and Seychelles adopted the comprehensive Joint Vision ‘SESEL’ (Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages). This initiative is an important step towards deepening cooperation between the two countries and strengthening shared interests in the Indian Ocean region.

The visit coincided with 50 years of Seychelles’ Independence and 50 years of India–Seychelles diplomatic relations.SESEL positions Seychelles as a key pillar of India’s MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

Key Highlights of the Visit

¨     Special Economic Package (USD 175 million): India announced development assistance comprising USD 125 million in rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance, aligned with Seychelles’ national priorities.The package will support projects in public housing, mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security.

¨     Adoption of SESEL Joint Vision: Both countries adopted a long-term vision document to expand cooperation in sustainability, trade, economic growth, and security, providing a strategic framework for the next phase of bilateral engagement.

¨     Defence and Maritime Security Cooperation: Maritime security and defence were reaffirmed as core pillars of the relationship.India is committed to sharing expertise in marine research, maritime surveillance, capacity building, and data-sharing to counter piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational maritime crimes.

¨     Colombo Security Conclave (CSC): Seychelles was welcomed as a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave, strengthening regional maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean.

Agreements and MoUs:Seven MoUs were signed covering:

¨     Pharmacopoeial cooperation in health

¨     Meteorological collaboration between national authorities

¨     Digital transformation and Digital Public Infrastructure

¨     Ocean observation and maritime scientific research

¨     Capacity-building for Seychellois civil servants

¨     Cultural Exchange Programme (2026–2030)

¨     Procurement of food items

Renewable Energy and Climate Cooperation: Both leaders agreed to expand cooperation in renewable energy, climate resilience and sustainable solutions, reflecting shared concerns of island and coastal states.

High-Level Symbolism: The President of India received President Herminie at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a State Banquet in his honour. President Herminie invited Prime Minister Modi to attend Seychelles’ 50th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour.