India and Seychelles signed 14 agreements during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit, marking 50 years of diplomatic ties with new cooperation in defence, health, fintech and sustainability.

Victoria: India and Seychelles elevated their partnership with the signing of 14 agreements during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit on February 9, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and Seychelles’ independence.

The agreements were formalised during talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, covering sectors such as defence cooperation, healthcare, fintech, civil service training and environmental sustainability. The visit also resulted in a $175 million economic assistance package focused on housing and infrastructure development.

As part of India’s outreach, assistance in the form of ambulances, patrol boats and food supplies was announced. Plans were also outlined for establishing a hydrographic unit and enhancing capacity-building initiatives for public servants.

Both sides agreed to explore trade in national currencies, a move aimed at deepening economic resilience and reducing dependence on external financial systems. The initiatives were framed within India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, reinforcing maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean.

Analysis: The breadth of agreements suggests a strategic push to anchor India’s influence in the Indian Ocean region through development-led diplomacy. For Seychelles, the package signals continued reliance on India as a key security and economic partner amid shifting regional dynamics. This assessment reflects analytical opinion; all factual details above are drawn from the original content.