NEWS: During his visit to Seychelles, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Patrick Herminie and announced 19 major outcomes to deepen bilateral cooperation.
PM Modi emphasised that the Indian Ocean is the "shared home" of regional countries, making its security, sustainability, and prosperity a shared responsibility.
Key Highlights
Announced 19 agreements/outcomes covering: Defence, Maritime security, Space, Digital payments, Healthcare, Agriculture, Education, Connectivity
Vision for the Indian Ocean
- Promote the Indian Ocean as an "Ocean of Opportunity".
- Encourage peace, secure sea lanes, sustainable development, and regional cooperation instead of geopolitical competition.
- Reinforce India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.
Defence & Maritime Cooperation
- India gifted a Fast Patrol Vessel to strengthen Seychelles' maritime surveillance and EEZ protection.
- Handed over 10 utility vehicles and 5 Laser Radial class boats to the Seychelles Defence Force.
- Completed the refit of PS Zoroaster of the Seychelles Coast Guard.
- Upgraded a Dornier aircraft with a modern glass cockpit for improved navigation and operational efficiency.
Climate Change
- Highlighted the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to climate change.
- Called for climate justice, stressing that countries contributing least to emissions should not bear the greatest burden.
Significance of India–Seychelles Relations
- Seychelles occupies a strategic location in the western Indian Ocean.
- A key partner in India's SAGAR and Indo-Pacific strategy.
- Cooperation spans maritime security, defence, trade, development, technology, and people-to-people ties.