PM Modi Holds Delegation-Level Talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie; Vision MAHASAGAR in Focus
NEW DELHI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie at Hyderabad House on Monday to hold extensive delegation-level talks. The high-profile meeting, aimed at bolstering bilateral ties, focused on maritime security, regional stability, and economic cooperation as both nations celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
President Herminie is currently on a five-day State visit to India, at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between the two Indian Ocean neighbors.
Strengthening Vision MAHASAGAR
A central pillar of the discussions was India’s "Vision MAHASAGAR," which seeks to ensure security and growth for all in the maritime region. Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar called on President Herminie to discuss advancing this strategic framework.
“Delighted to call on President Dr. Patrick Herminie today in Delhi. As maritime neighbours, value his support towards advancing Vision MAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region,” Jaishankar shared in a post on X. The EAM expressed confidence that the engagements with PM Modi would open "new vistas" for cooperation between the two republics.
A Tribute to Bapu and Diplomatic Protocol
Before his meeting with the Prime Minister, President Herminie visited Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted the significance of the visit, stating that Gandhi’s enduring principles continue to guide the India-Seychelles partnership.
The President’s arrival in New Delhi on Sunday followed productive legs of his tour in Chennai and Mumbai. Upon landing at the airport, he was accorded a ceremonial welcome and received by Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel.
Deepening Ties in Mumbai and Chennai
The State visit has seen the Seychelles delegation engage with multiple facets of Indian industry and governance:
- Mumbai Engagements: President Herminie met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss port-led development and coastal management. CM Fadnavis highlighted promising opportunities for collaboration, particularly as both nations mark 50 years of independence and diplomatic ties this year.
- Chennai Business Forum: On February 6, the President attended the India-Seychelles Business Forum organized by FICCI. He identified priority sectors for collaboration, including digital technologies, renewable energy, tourism, higher education, and electric mobility. A dedicated CEOs’ Roundtable allowed Indian industry leaders to interact directly with the Seychelles ministerial delegation.
The visit underscores Seychelles' role as a key maritime neighbor and an important partner in India’s commitment to the Global South.