Victoria, Seychelles, June 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over an Indian-built Fast Patrol Vessel, six ambulances, ten utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to Seychelles during his official visit to the island nation.
The handover ceremony was held at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria in the presence of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie.
The Fast Patrol Vessel, named PS LESPWAR, was built by Goa Shipyard Limited and is intended to support Seychelles’ maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol operations.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the vessel and other equipment will contribute to the maritime security and development requirements of Seychelles. The ambulances, utility vehicles and boats were also handed over during the ceremony.
The ministry stated that the cooperation reflects the growing defence partnership between India and Seychelles under India’s Vision MAHASAGAR framework, aimed at promoting security and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Victoria on Saturday to participate as the Guest of Honour at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Seychelles’ National Day.During the ceremonial reception, the national anthems of both countries were played, following which Prime Minister Modi and President Herminie inspected a Guard of Honour.
The Prime Minister also attended cultural performances, including a traditional Seychellois moutya presentation and a folk dance from Kutch, Gujarat, performed by members of the Indian diaspora in Seychelles.This is Prime Minister Modi’s second official State Visit to Seychelles. The visit follows the visit of President Patrick Herminie to India earlier this year.
The Office of the President of Seychelles said that India remains a key development partner for Seychelles, supporting projects in infrastructure, healthcare, education and community development, while also cooperating on issues related to peace and security in the Indian Ocean region.
India and Seychelles established diplomatic relations after Seychelles gained independence in 1976, and both countries continue to maintain bilateral cooperation in various sectors.