Kumar Bahukhandi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie and others during the handing-over ceremony of a fast petrol vessel with cars and ambulances at the Coast Guard Base, in Victoria, Seychelles. (PMO via PTI Photo)
The MEA said the assistance reflects India’s Vision MAHASAGAR and underscores the growing defence partnership between the two countries
Victoria [Seychelles]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over the India-built Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) PS LESPWAR to Seychelles to strengthen the island nation’s maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities.
During a ceremony at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria, attended by Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, the Prime Minister also handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to support the country’s development and security.
The Fast Patrol Vessel was manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the vessel would enhance Seychelles’ maritime surveillance and EEZ patrol capabilities.
The MEA said the assistance reflects India’s Vision MAHASAGAR and underscores the growing defence partnership between the two countries, contributing to peace, security and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
PM Modi arrived in Victoria on Saturday as the Guest of Honour for Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, with the visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
Following the national anthems, PM Modi and President Herminie inspected a ceremonial Guard of Honour and received a military salute.
The Prime Minister also witnessed cultural performances, including the traditional Seychellois moutya dance and a Kutch folk dance presented by an 18-member group from the Indian diaspora, highlighting the cultural links between the two nations.
The visit marks PM Modi’s second official State Visit to Seychelles and follows President Patrick Herminie’s visit to India earlier this year.
Ahead of the visit, the Office of the President of Seychelles described India as one of the country’s closest development partners, supporting infrastructure, healthcare, education and community development while working together to promote peace and stability in the Indian Ocean. It also noted that the visit reflects the enduring partnership between the two countries since Seychelles gained Independence in 1976.
( Source : ANI )
