India reaffirms deepening close partnership, commitment to support Seychelles
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held official talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, agreeing to strengthen cooperation in health, education, and capacity building.
- Discussions covered bilateral relations, regional developments, and challenges in the Indian Ocean, including illegal fishing and piracy.
- India reaffirmed its commitment to Seychelles' development priorities and announced a Line of Credit of INR 1250 crores, alongside other development support measures.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his state visit to Seychelles with official talks alongside President Patrick Herminie, focusing on deepening bilateral ties across various sectors. The leaders committed to enhancing cooperation in key areas such as health, education, and capacity building, underscoring the strong relationship between the two island nations.
The discussions encompassed a wide range of bilateral issues, including digital transformation, sustainable development, renewable energy, maritime security, and defense. Both leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments, with a particular focus on challenges within the Indian Ocean region, such as illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and piracy. They expressed satisfaction with the progress of projects funded by India's Special Economic Package.
Look inwards, get rid of terrorism as State policy instrument
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's unwavering commitment to supporting Seychelles' development priorities and further strengthening their close partnership. The Prime Minister's Office announced via X that a joint commemorative logo marking 50 years of diplomatic relations was released. Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements were exchanged in fields including capacity building, digital payments (UPI), health, agriculture, shipping, space, extradition, and a Line of Credit amounting to INR 1250 crores (approximately $150 million USD).
Further announcements were made to support Seychelles' development needs in food security, infrastructure, health, vocational training, and maritime security. Seychelles also declared its intention to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Later, Prime Minister Modi addressed an Extraordinary Sitting of the National Assembly, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so. He highlighted the historical bonds, shared democratic values, and robust partnership between India and Seychelles, calling for increased parliamentary exchanges.
Look inwards, get rid of terrorism as State policy instrument
Originally published by Times of Oman. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.