Introduction
India-Seychelles ties were established after its independence
in 1976. Both countries grew closer, have good understanding and cooperation.
An Indian mission was established in 1979 in Victoria with the High
Commissioner based in Dar-es-Salaam concurrently accredited to Seychelles. The
first resident Indian Mission to Seychelles was opened at Victoria in
1987, while Seychelles opened its resident mission in New Delhi in early
2008.
Bilateral Agreements
Several
bilateral agreements have been signed between the two countries like
agreements on cultural Exchange program, Air services, Tourism, Trade, Healthcare, Defense and Science and technology, twining agreement of
friendship cooperation between Panaji(municipal corporation), Goa (India)
and Victoria city of Seychelles Technical agreement on sharing white
shipping information between Indian navy and national information sharing
and coordination center of Seychelles signed. It will enable the two countries
to exchange data regarding identity and movement of non- military
commercial vessels.
Commercial Relations
Bilateral
trade and commerce with Seychelles is rather modest, there exists significant
scope for enhancing cooperation in commercial field. Presently, Seychelles main
items of import from India are rice, miscellaneous and food products, cement,
linen cotton, vehicle and associated transport equipment, medicines,
instruments and appliance for medical surgical & dental use..
Cultural Relations
Cultural
cooperation between India- Seychelles has always been significant. The landmark
culture events were the five editions of the Seychelles- India day held in
Vitoria from 2013 to 2017. It is the biggest cultural event in Seychelles with
the highest attendance of people. The Indian association Tamil
Mandram regularly organizes more
cultural events.
Civil Aviation & Tourism
Both country have signed
MoU in September 2014, Air Seychelles
started with thrice – weekly direct flights between Mahe and Mumbai. The
direct air connectivity has boosted bilateral trade and investment, flow of
tourist traffic and people to people contact.
Assumption Island is a small island in the outer islands of
Seychelles north of Madagascar.
Seychelles and India signed an agreement to build and operate a joint
military facility portion of the island. The deal for an Indian military
base in Seychelles was declared ‘dead’ by the island’s opposition party. The
plan for an Indian military base in the island stirred up public protests by
activists who believe that islands must stay away from brewing India – china
regional conflict.
Current Agreement on Assumption Island
Both India and Seychelles have agreed to work together on project
to develop naval base at Assumption Island keeping each other’s concerns in
mind. Both countries are key strategic partners and these countries respect the
core values of democracy. India and Seychelles share geo- strategic vision of
maintaining peace, security and stability in Indian ocean region.
