Victoria, Seychelles, June 28: India and Seychelles on Sunday agreed to strengthen cooperation in the Blue Economy, infrastructure development, investment, maritime security, and sustainable growth following high-level bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie.
The discussions, held during Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to Seychelles, focused on enhancing economic ties, improving regional connectivity, and promoting sustainable development in the Indian Ocean Region. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the long-standing partnership between the two countries.
Focus on the Blue Economy
A major outcome of the meeting was the decision to deepen collaboration in the Blue Economy, with emphasis on the sustainable use of marine resources, fisheries, coastal infrastructure, marine research, renewable ocean energy, and environmental conservation.
Both sides agreed that closer cooperation would contribute to economic growth while protecting the marine ecosystem, which is vital to the livelihoods of island nations.
Infrastructure and Investment Cooperation
India announced continued support for infrastructure projects in Seychelles, including initiatives related to transportation, digital connectivity, public services, healthcare, education, and renewable energy.
The two countries also explored ways to encourage greater investment, facilitate business partnerships, and strengthen trade relations. Officials said enhanced economic cooperation would create new opportunities for both public and private sector stakeholders.
Maritime Security Remains a Priority
Prime Minister Modi and President Herminie reiterated their commitment to maintaining a free, open, and secure Indian Ocean. Discussions covered maritime domain awareness, coastal surveillance, anti-piracy operations, disaster response, and capacity building.
India reaffirmed its support for Seychelles in strengthening maritime capabilities through training programmes, technical assistance, and defence cooperation.
Agreements Signed Across Key Sectors
Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged during the visit, covering areas such as healthcare, digital public infrastructure, education, skill development, renewable energy, and cultural cooperation.
Both governments described the agreements as an important step toward expanding collaboration across multiple sectors and improving people-to-people ties.
Shared Vision for Regional Growth
Addressing the media after the talks, Prime Minister Modi said India remains committed to working with Seychelles under its MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, aimed at promoting peace, prosperity, and sustainable development throughout the Indian Ocean.
President Herminie welcomed India’s continued partnership and expressed confidence that the expanded cooperation would contribute to Seychelles’ long-term economic development and regional stability.
The bilateral discussions concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership and exploring new areas of collaboration in the years ahead.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India
Original Report:
https://www.mea.gov.in/
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