The Prime Minister of India and the President of Seychelles recently held a virtual meeting, where they discussed multiple projects and agreements between the two nations.
Inaugural Events at the Summit
The leaders jointly inaugurated several developments in Seychelles, all funded by India. The projects included a new magistrates’ court building, a 1 MW solar power plant, and 10 community development projects. The court building, which cost USD 3.5 million dollars, and the power plant, a USD 3.4 million investment, will serve as an addition to the 29 people-oriented projects already funded by India. The solar project alone is set to meet the electricity needs of around 400 houses throughout the year.
Fast Patrol Vehicle Donation
Continuing India’s contributions, a fast patrol vessel (PS Zoroaster) was handed over to Seychelles. Constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineering, under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, the patrol boat boasts a top speed of 35 knots and a range of 1,500 nautical miles, serving multi-purpose operations like patrolling, anti-smuggling efforts, and search and rescue tasks.
India and Seychelles’ Stance on their Relationship
India emphasizes their commitment to Seychelles development, stating that the nation is crucial to their vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). Seychelles appreciates India’s support, recognizing it as a reliable partner. This has been demonstrated through India’s donation of 50,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccines, marking Seychelles as the first recipient of India’s vaccine aid and aiding in their goal to achieve 70% herd immunity.
India-Seychelles Relationship Background
The diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles began in 1976, following Seychelles’ independence where the Indian Naval Ship, INS Nilgiri, joined in Independence Day celebrations. Since then, the two nations have developed economic relations with trade reaching USD 84.49 million in exports and USD 5.27 million in imports during 2018-19, and agreements such as the Blue Economy Protocol and Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA).
Cultural Relations and Indian Community
With a significant presence of Indian Diaspora in Seychelles, cultural exchanges are primarily led by the community with government support. This includes initiatives from prominent Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) associations in Seychelles, who invite Indian cultural troupes for performances. Approximately 10,000 PIOs hold Seychelles citizenship, making up about 11% of the population, with a similar number of Indian citizens holding Gainful Employment Permits.
Defence Cooperation
India and Seychelles have deepened their defence and security cooperation, developing infrastructure on Assumption Island as a key piece in India’s proactive maritime strategy. The Seychelles government leased the island to the Indian Navy to build an overseas base of operations, countering China’s moves in the Indian Ocean region.
SAGAR: Security and Growth for All in the Region
Launched in 2015, SAGAR is India’s strategic vision for the Indian Ocean Region. Through this initiative, India seeks to deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbours and assist in building their maritime security capabilities.
Way Forward
Seychelles continues to be a strategic location for major powers, including India. Furthermore, both countries need to strengthen shared efforts to combat issues like drug trafficking, illegal fishing, piracy, and climate change while protecting the ocean ecosystem.