India pledges $175 million to boost Seychelles ties

India on Monday announced a USD 175 million special economic package for Seychelles following wide-ranging talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in New Delhi. The announcement coincided with the adoption of a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth, and Security , marking a new and more dynamic phase in bilateral relations. Several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were also signed to strengthen cooperation in governance, development, trade, and maritime security.

President Herminie, on a six-day state visit, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat , highlighting the historical and cultural links that bind the two nations. His visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations , reflecting a long-standing friendship built on trust, shared values, and mutual respect. Herminie invited Prime Minister Modi to attend Seychelles’ 50th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour , further cementing bilateral ties.

Prime Minister Modi described India-Seychelles relations as “connected not just by geography, but by history, trust, and a shared vision for the future.” He emphasized that development cooperation has been the strong foundation of the partnership, adding, “All our efforts have been based on Seychelles’ priorities and needs. Moving forward, today we are announcing a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million.” The assistance will fund social housing, mobility, vocational training, healthcare, defence, and maritime security projects, while creating employment and skill development opportunities for Seychellois youth.

President Herminie underlined the strategic importance of the partnership, saying, “As Indian Ocean states, maritime security and regional stability remain central to our relationship. Prime Minister Modi and I reaffirmed our shared responsibility for promoting safety, stability, and lawful activity in the western Indian Ocean.” Both leaders emphasized that Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour and an important partner in ensuring regional security and prosperity.

Trade between the two nations was also discussed. India exports mainly vehicles and transport equipment, cereals such as rice and maize, pharmaceuticals, machinery, iron and steel products, plastics, aluminum, ceramic products, and consumer goods to Seychelles. In return, India imports a smaller volume of iron and steel scrap, copper, aluminum, machinery parts, and wood products. Modi noted, “We aim to further boost trade, including exploring settlement in local currencies and strengthening digital infrastructure for commerce.”

The MoUs signed cover training Seychellois civil servants in India, cooperation in renewable energy, climate resilience, digital transformation, fintech, tourism, education, sports, and the blue economy. Both leaders also pledged to enhance maritime security and defence collaboration, reaffirming Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the people-to-people ties , stating, “The Indian community has made a remarkable contribution to the social and economic life of Seychelles and strengthened our friendship across generations.” Herminie echoed this, noting that strong personal and cultural connections are a defining strength of the bilateral relationship.

The two leaders concluded the visit by releasing the India-Seychelles Joint Vision , providing a roadmap for enhanced engagement in development, trade, security, governance, and cultural cooperation.