India–Seychelles Strategic Partnership: Defence Cooperation, Maritime Security and Indo-Pacific Significance

Context

India and Seychelles marked a major milestone in their bilateral ties during the State Visit of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie to India,

More about the Visit

• It coincided with 50 years of Seychelles’ independence and five decades of diplomatic relations.
• The two sides unveiled the SESEL Vision (Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages as a future-oriented roadmap.
  • It is a holistic framework covering security, development, digital transformation, climate action, and people-to-people ties.

Key Outcomes of the Visit

• Special Economic Package: India announced a USD 175 million Special Economic Package for Seychelles. The package includes a USD 125 million Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grants.
• Trade, Investment, and Tourism: Both sides encouraged Indian companies to invest in tourism, blue economy, digital technology, AI, and financial services. They agreed to explore greater air connectivity to boost tourism.
• Strengthening Digital Cooperation: India agreed to support Seychelles in building Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Cooperation will include digital payments and e-governance systems suited to Seychelles’ needs.
• Health Sector Cooperation: India donated 10 fully equipped ambulances to strengthen emergency healthcare services.
  • Seychelles agreed to recognise the Indian Pharmacopoeia, enabling access to affordable medicines.
• Food Security: India donated 1,000 metric tonnes of food grains to Seychelles. Both sides agreed to create mechanisms for regular procurement of affordable food and essential goods from India.
• Capacity Building: India will expand training programmes under ITEC for civil servants, defence personnel, and professionals.
  • Cooperation will grow in areas such as cybersecurity, financial intelligence, marine sciences, MSMEs, and renewable energy.
• Renewable Energy: India will provide technical assistance for power grid management and green mobility.
  • Seychelles agreed to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
• Maritime Security and Defence Cooperation: India committed continued support through joint maritime surveillance, hydrographic surveys, training, and asset support.
• Regional and Multilateral Cooperation:
  • Seychelles became a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave.
  • Seychelles reaffirmed its support for India’s permanent membership of the UN Security Council.
• Hydrography and Blue Economy
  • India will assist in setting up a Seychelles Hydrographic Unit.
  • Joint hydrographic surveys will support blue economy development.
  • The 3rd Joint Commission Meeting on Hydrography will be held in Seychelles in 2026.

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