Victoria, June 27 (IANS) The President of Seychelles, Patrick Herminie, said on Saturday that India has been a steadfast friend to Seychelles during a banquet hosted in honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as the latter is on an official state visit to the Archipelagic island.

According to the Office of President of the Seychelles, addressing guests at the dinner, President Herminie affirmed the enduring bond between the two nations.

“India has been a steadfast friend to Seychelles, a sentiment warmly reciprocated by our people and our vibrant Indian diaspora,” President Herminie said.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), during the banquet, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the steadfast partnership between India and Seychelles.

The dinner was attended by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, Seychelles’ Speaker of the National Assembly Azarel Ernesta, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Barry Faure, and members of Cabinet, among other guests.

“This year carries particular significance for both nations, as 2026 also marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and India, a partnership built on shared democratic values, maritime cooperation, and enduring people-to-people ties. The concurrent celebrations of Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee as a Republic and five decades of bilateral friendship lend the visit exceptional symbolic weight,” the President’s office noted.

“Prime Minister Modi’s presence as Guest of Honour at the National Day celebrations underscores the depth and vitality of the Seychelles-India relationship as both nations look to the next fifty years of partnership,” it added.

Seychelles and India have maintained close and mutually beneficial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1976, with India remaining a committed development partner across sectors, including infrastructure, defence, health, and maritime security.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Victoria on Saturday to a formal welcome befitting the historic occasion, marking his second State Visit to Seychelles.

Upon arrival at the airport in Victoria, Mahe, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by President Herminie and accorded a ceremonial welcome.

A number of Seychellois dignitaries and members of the Indian community also joined the welcome ceremony, which included vibrant cultural performances, reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Later on Saturday afternoon, at a special function, the Indian Prime Minister handed over the Fast Patrol Vessel ‘Lespwar’ (‘Hope’ in Creole) to President Herminie as a gift for the Seychelles government. In addition, 10 utility vehicles, 5 laser radial boats and 6 ambulances were also handed over.

“These will enhance Seychelles’ maritime security and defence capabilities,” the MEA noted.

–IANS

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