India and Seychelles deepen strategic partnership during PM Modi visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a three-day state visit to Seychelles, strengthening bilateral ties through new development initiatives and expanded maritime cooperation.
During the visit, the Prime Minister interacted with Jonathan, the famed 196-year-old Aldabra giant tortoise regarded as the world’s oldest living land animal. He also addressed a special sitting of the Seychelles National Assembly, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.
Key outcomes of the visit included a development assistance package worth 175 million US dollars, the signing of nine bilateral agreements, and enhanced cooperation in maritime security.
The visit coincided with Seychelles’ 50th National Day celebrations and reinforced India’s MAHASAGAR vision for cooperation across the Indian Ocean region.
Seychelles is an island nation comprising 116 islands in the Indian Ocean off Africa’s eastern coast. With a population of just over one lakh, it is the smallest country in East Africa. Initially settled during French rule, the islands later came under British administration before gaining independence in 1976. Since then, the country has transformed from an agriculture-based economy into one driven largely by tourism and services.
A direct IndiGo flight currently connects Mumbai with Mahé, Seychelles’ largest island, located about 3,800 kilometres away.
Maritime experts note that Seychelles occupies a strategically important position along major international sea routes. These sea lanes are essential for global trade during peacetime and play a crucial role in energy transportation and security during periods of conflict.
The island nation also places significant emphasis on its Blue Economy initiative, launched in 2018 to promote sustainable use of marine resources while balancing economic development with environmental conservation. The initiative supports international efforts to protect oceans and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal on marine conservation.