PM’S SEYCHELLES VISIT TO GIVE FRESH IMPETUS TO DEFENCE, SECURITY TIES: INDIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER
New Delhi, Jun 27, 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Seychelles is expected to provide a fresh impetus to bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of defence and security, Indian High Commissioner to Seychelles Rohit Rathish said on Saturday, describing the visit as “a historic milestone” in ties between the two countries.
Speaking to ANI ahead of the Prime Minister’s arrival, Rathish said India and Seychelles share deep-rooted historical ties and common democratic values that form the foundation of their partnership.
“India and Seychelles enjoy very deep-rooted and historic ties with cultural affinities. We inhabit a shared region and also share the values of democracy and the rule of law. These are the anchors of our bilateral partnership,” he said.
“With this visit, I think we will see a greater impetus on defence and security,” the envoy added.
Highlighting the longstanding relationship between the two countries, Rathish said their connection goes back more than two centuries.
“Our destinies have been intertwined for 250 years. The bilateral partnership, the diplomatic relations, are but the latest chapter in this relationship,” he said.
Expressing confidence about the outcomes of the visit, Rathish said both countries are looking to deepen engagement across multiple sectors.
“We look forward to an intense period of bilateral relations, building upon our deep-rooted and historic ties and taking them to new heights,” he said.
The High Commissioner also indicated that several development initiatives could be unveiled during the visit.
“We are looking to hopefully inaugurate a few of the projects on both the civilian side as well as on the defence and security aspects as well,” he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday morning emplaned for a three-day state visit to Seychelles, where he will attend the country’s Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour and hold talks aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, a contingent of the Indian Armed Forces and two Indian Navy ships will participate in the National Day celebrations, reflecting the close defence and maritime partnership between the two countries. The two leaders are also expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.