India Hosts Seychelles President in Landmark Visit Marking 50 Years of Relations

On February 9, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu of India hosted Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. This visit was a significant event as it marked the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' independence and also the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. During the visit, President Murmu expressed the importance of Seychelles in India’s broader vision called the MAHASAGAR Vision. This plan aims to build stronger cooperation through trade for development, better capacity building, and mutual security. It emphasizes that Seychelles has a special place in India’s efforts to promote cooperation and friendship. The day included a banquet hosted by President Murmu in honor of President Herminie. Attendees enjoyed a variety of dishes inspired by India’s coastal regions. The menu showcased ingredients like coconut, kokum, bananas, jackfruit, lentils, and rice, highlighting India’s rich culinary traditions from states such as Kerala, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The banquet was attended by Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan, who was present to honor the Seychelles president. His presence signified the importance India gives to its relationship with Seychelles. A key topic discussed during the visit was the India-Seychelles Joint Vision for Sustainable Growth and Security. This plan, called 'Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages' or SESEL, aims to lay a strong foundation for future cooperation. It focuses on strengthening economic ties, security measures, and sustainable development projects. President Herminie was sworn in as the 6th President of Seychelles on October 26, 2025. Since then, efforts have been made to build a solid partnership with India. Following his inauguration, the Vice President of India, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, paid a courtesy visit to President Herminie on October 27, 2025. One of the notable outcomes of the visit was the announcement of a Special Economic Package. This package is intended to give new momentum to India-Seychelles cooperation across various priority sectors, including health, infrastructure, education, defense, and capacity building. However, as of 2026, there are no official details available about the specific contents or implementation of this package. The visit also aimed to foster closer ties through practical arrangements and new initiatives, although no official confirmation exists about the signing of any agreements or memorandums of understanding during this visit. Likewise, details about the duration and specific locations visited by President Herminie during his stay in India have not been publicly confirmed. The discussions held during the visit highlight the ongoing commitment of both nations to strengthen their relationship. While many practical steps are expected to follow, the full impact and specific outcomes of this visit are yet to be officially announced. In summary, this state visit was a key moment in India-Seychelles relations, reflecting mutual respect and a shared commitment to collaboration in various sectors. The anniversary also provides an opportunity to look forward to stronger ties, better cooperation, and joint efforts toward sustainable development and security for the countries involved.