Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over the ‘Made in India’ Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) PS LESPWAR, along with six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats, to Seychelles, reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening the island nation’s maritime security and development partnership.
The assets were handed over to Seychelles President Patrick Herminie during a ceremony at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria on the first day of the Prime Minister’s State Visit.
Built by Goa Shipyard Limited, the Fast Patrol Vessel is expected to enhance Seychelles’ maritime surveillance capabilities and strengthen patrolling within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Sharing details of the ceremony on X, Prime Minister Modi said the transfer of the Fast Patrol Vessel Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard marks another important milestone in the growing India-Seychelles partnership in defence and maritime security.
He said the vessel is the latest in a series of capability-building initiatives that reflect India’s steadfast commitment to supporting Seychelles’ security priorities.
“India remains proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Seychelles as a trusted partner, working together to deepen our enduring friendship and strengthen our collective maritime capabilities,” the Prime Minister said.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Fast Patrol Vessel would significantly enhance Seychelles’ maritime surveillance and EEZ patrol capabilities. It added that the six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats would further support the country’s development and security requirements.
According to the MEA, the assistance reflects India’s Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and highlights the expanding defence partnership between India and Seychelles in promoting peace, security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Seychelles earlier on Saturday to attend the country’s Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour and to hold high-level bilateral engagements.
Following the ceremonial welcome, Prime Minister Modi and President Herminie inspected a Guard of Honour after the national anthems of both countries were played. The Prime Minister also witnessed cultural performances, including the traditional Seychellois Moutya dance and a folk performance from Kutch, Gujarat, presented by members of the Indian diaspora in Seychelles.
This is Prime Minister Modi’s second State Visit to Seychelles. Earlier this year, President Patrick Herminie paid a State Visit to India.
Ahead of the visit, the Office of the President of Seychelles described India as one of the country’s closest and most valued development partners, highlighting cooperation in infrastructure, healthcare, education, community development and maritime security. It also noted that the visit reflects the enduring partnership between the two nations, which have maintained diplomatic relations since Seychelles gained independence in 1976.
-IANS
