Explained: How Seychelles Fits into India’s Vision MAHASAGAR
At a time when the Indian Ocean is emerging as a key theatre of global influence, India is reinforcing its maritime partnerships. The recent visit of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie signals New Delhi’s growing focus on regional security, economic cooperation, and its ambitious Vision MAHASAGAR.
What Happened During the Seychelles President’s India Visit?
Seychelles President Patrick Herminie is on a five-day visit till February 10, marking his first official trip since taking office in October 2025. The visit has also coincided with 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
During his visit, Herminie met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi, held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, engaged with industry, health, and maritime stakeholders in Chennai and Mumbai. These meetings aimed to deepen cooperation in governance, healthcare, maritime trade, and sustainable development.
What Is Vision MAHASAGAR?
Vision MAHASAGAR is India’s strategic framework for the Indian Ocean region. It focuses on maritime security, economic prosperity, disaster resilience, regional connectivity and sustainable development. EAM Jaishankar highlighted Seychelles’ support for this vision, calling it crucial for stability and growth in the region.
Why Seychelles Matters to India
Seychelles holds major strategic value for India in the Indian Ocean. Seychelles lies close to key sea lanes that connect Asia, Africa and Europe. These routes are vital for India’s energy imports and trade. Its location helps India monitor maritime threats such as piracy, illegal fishing and potential geopolitical influence in the region. It acts as India’s bridge to East Africa and island nations, strengthening New Delhi’s regional presence. India views Seychelles as
Openomics 2026: Continuity and Conviction
06 Feb 2026 - Vol 04 | Issue 57
The performance state at its peak
a trusted partner in promoting development-led diplomacy in the Global South. Both countries are working together on fisheries, ocean resources and sustainable maritime industries. In short, Seychelles is not just a neighbour, it is a strategic pillar of India’s Indian Ocean policy.
Key Areas of Cooperation Discussed
In Chennai, discussions were focussed on super-speciality medical outreach, hospital infrastructure, digital health, affordable medicines and dialysis expansion.
In Mumbai, talks covered port development, shipping cooperation, investment opportunities and sustainable marine industries. Meetings with India’s top leadership aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and align views on regional and global issues.
Why This Visit Is Important for India?
This visit highlights three major trends in India’s foreign policy. First, rising focus on the Indian Ocean as India is prioritising maritime neighbours to secure trade and energy routes.
Second, deepening global south diplomacy. Partnerships such as Seychelles reinforce India’s leadership among developing nations.
Third, balanced regional influence. Strong ties help India counter growing competition in the Indian Ocean.
Through Vision MAHASAGAR, India is positioning itself as a net security provider and development partner.
What Lies Ahead?
With growing cooperation in healthcare, trade, and maritime security, India–Seychelles relations are expected to enter a new phase. Future collaboration may include expanded naval cooperation, more infrastructure projects, increased people-to-people exchanges and joint climate and sustainability initiatives. The visit sets the tone for long-term strategic partnership.
(With inputs from ANI)