India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh highlighted the enduring bonds between India and Seychelles at the 50th National Day Reception of the Republic of Seychelles, celebrating the island nation’s remarkable journey and the strength of the bilateral partnership.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh extended warm greetings to the President of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, the Government and the people of Seychelles, while recalling the significance of the year, which marks the 50th anniversary of Seychelles’ independence and five decades of India–Seychelles diplomatic relations.
“We celebrate not only remarkable national achievements, but also an enduring friendship built on trust, mutual respect and shared aspirations,” the Minister said.
Highlighting Seychelles’ progress, Shri Singh noted that the island nation has emerged as a leading example of development in the Indian Ocean region, reflecting the vision, resilience and determination of its people.
He emphasised that India’s relationship with Seychelles goes beyond formal diplomacy, rooted in centuries-old people-to-people connections. Referring to the arrival of Indians in Seychelles in the 18th century, he said the Indian community in Seychelles continues to contribute significantly to the country’s social and economic fabric while strengthening the bonds between the two nations.
“Our friendship, however, is much older than our diplomatic relations,” Shri Singh remarked, underlining the deep historical and cultural linkages between the two societies.
The Minister spoke about the growing strategic partnership between the two maritime neighbours, anchored in democratic values, mutual trust and a shared vision for a peaceful, secure and prosperous Indian Ocean region.
He highlighted the recent momentum in bilateral ties, including the adoption of the India–Seychelles Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages during President Dr Patrick Herminie’s State Visit to India in February 2026. The framework focuses on key areas including maritime security, digital public infrastructure, healthcare, capacity building and sustainable development.
“This forward-looking roadmap will steer our partnership to new heights,” Shri Singh said.
Emphasising India’s commitment as a trusted development partner, the Minister highlighted cooperation in healthcare, education, housing, infrastructure, community development and capacity building. He noted that India’s development initiatives and training programmes have created lasting benefits for the people of Seychelles.
He also underlined the importance of defence and maritime cooperation between the two countries, including collaboration in hydrography, maritime surveillance, joint exercises and professional training.
“As two Indian Ocean nations, we recognise that our security and prosperity are closely linked, and India will continue to stand with Seychelles as a trusted friend and dependable partner,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Shri Singh identified promising areas for deeper cooperation, including the blue economy, renewable energy, climate action, digital connectivity and financial cooperation. He stressed the importance of investing in young people through greater exchanges among students, researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs.
“They will shape the next chapter of this remarkable partnership,” he said.
Concluding his address, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh expressed confidence that India and Seychelles would continue to strengthen their partnership for the benefit of their people and for peace, stability and prosperity across the Indian Ocean region.
“May Seychelles continue to prosper, and may the friendship between India and Seychelles grow even stronger in the years ahead,” he said.
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