VICTORIA, SEYCHELLES: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie on Sunday participated in the handing-over ceremony of the ‘Made in India’ Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) PS Lespwar at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base. India also handed over six ambulances, ten utility vehicles and five laser radial boats, reinforcing the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
A New Milestone in Defence Cooperation
The induction of the Fast Patrol Vessel PS Lespwar marks another important chapter in India-Seychelles defence ties. Built in India, the vessel will significantly strengthen the Seychelles Coast Guard’s maritime surveillance, coastal security and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities.
Prime Minister Modi described the transfer as a reflection of India’s long-standing commitment to supporting Seychelles’ security priorities.
“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,” PM Modi said.
India Reaffirms Its Commitment
Highlighting the depth of bilateral relations, the Prime Minister said the handover forms part of a broader series of capability-building initiatives undertaken by India for Seychelles.
“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,” he added.
Summing up the spirit of the partnership, PM Modi declared “Together as partners. Stronger as one.”
Additional Assistance for Seychelles
Besides the patrol vessel, India handed over six ambulances, ten utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to Seychelles.
The ambulances are expected to strengthen healthcare services, while the utility vehicles will improve logistical support for government agencies. The laser radial boats will enhance coastal operations, emergency response and maritime security.
Boosting Maritime Security
The newly commissioned Fast Patrol Vessel will play a crucial role in monitoring Seychelles’ vast maritime territory. It will support surveillance operations, search-and-rescue missions, anti-smuggling efforts and protection of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
The vessel is also expected to improve the operational capabilities of the Seychelles Coast Guard amid evolving maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean.
Guided by Vision MAHASAGAR
The assistance has been extended under India’s Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), which seeks to strengthen maritime cooperation, regional security and sustainable development among Indian Ocean partners.
India considers Seychelles a key maritime partner, and both countries continue to work closely on issues including coastal security, disaster response, maritime domain awareness and capacity building.
Growing Strategic Partnership
India and Seychelles have maintained close diplomatic and defence relations for decades. Their partnership has expanded through defence training, hydrographic cooperation, infrastructure development, humanitarian assistance and regular exchanges between their armed forces.
The latest delivery of defence and development assets further strengthens bilateral cooperation and underscores India’s role as a trusted security partner in the Indian Ocean region.
Looking Ahead
The handover ceremony reflects the shared vision of both nations to promote peace, stability and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean. As maritime challenges continue to evolve, India and Seychelles are expected to deepen cooperation across defence, security, trade and regional connectivity.
The induction of PS Lespwar, along with the accompanying assistance package, is expected to enhance Seychelles’ operational capabilities while reinforcing the enduring friendship between New Delhi and Victoria.
