Diplomatic calendars light up as Seychelles President Patrick Herminie heads to India for a state visit from February 5-10, courtesy of PM Narendra Modi’s invitation. This landmark trip, his first since taking oath, honors the 50th year of ties forged in 1976.
MEA’s Monday briefing outlined a packed schedule: courtesy call on President Droupadi Murmu, followed by strategic parleys with PM Modi on diverse issues spanning bilateral priorities to international hotspots.
Herminie ventures beyond Delhi to Chennai and Mumbai for targeted business interactions, designed to spur trade and investment flows. Such moves exemplify the visit’s role in supercharging multifaceted partnerships.
Seychelles’ strategic perch in the Indian Ocean aligns with India’s Vision SAGAR ethos and Global South leadership. Momentum carries from VP Dhankhar’s October 2024 Seychelles mission, including Herminie’s swearing-in attendance.
Post-ceremony at Unity Stadium, Dhankhar’s State House dialogue with Herminie delved into cooperation enhancers, laced with inaugural greetings. Shared goals for Indian Ocean stability resonated strongly. VP Meriton talks amplified cultural synergies.
The partnership’s roots run deep: 1976 independence saw INS Nilgiri’s ceremonial salute. India’s Victoria mission launched in 1979; Seychelles’ New Delhi outpost in 2008.
This engagement heralds amplified exchanges in security, economy, and beyond, cementing India’s ocean neighborhood vision amid evolving geopolitics.