India and Seychelles have announced a substantial $175 million economic package and signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), signaling a new phase of strengthened cooperation between the two nations. The announcements were made on February 9, 2026, during the state visit of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie to India, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the deep-rooted connections between India and Seychelles, emphasizing that the relationship extends beyond mere diplomacy. "India and Seychelles are connected not just by geography, but by history, trust and a shared vision for the future," he stated. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian community to Seychelles' social and economic landscape, further solidifying the bond between the two countries.
The $175 million economic package aims to support concrete projects in Seychelles, focusing on areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defense, and maritime security. This financial assistance comprises USD 125 million in a Rupee-denominated Line of Credit (LOC) and USD 50 million in grant assistance. The package intends to create new employment and skill-training opportunities, particularly for the youth of Seychelles.
In addition to the economic package, India and Seychelles adopted a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL). Several key MoUs and agreements were signed, encompassing various sectors including health, maritime cooperation, digital transformation, capacity-building, and cultural exchange. The MoUs include:
- Pharmacopoeial cooperation in the health sector
- Technical and scientific collaboration between meteorological authorities
- A Cultural Exchange Programme for 2026-2030
- Cooperation on population-scale digital solutions for digital transformation
- Ocean observation, maritime scientific research, and data sharing
- Capacity-building training programs for Seychelles civil servants
- Procurement of food items
The agreements signal a commitment to enhanced cooperation across diverse sectors, fostering stronger ties and mutual growth.
President Herminie's visit holds special significance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence and 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. This milestone underscores the enduring friendship and partnership between the two nations.
India's engagement with Seychelles aligns with its "Vision MAHASAGAR" (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), which emphasizes economic cooperation, sustainability, and security in the Indian Ocean Region. Seychelles holds a crucial position in this vision, serving as a strategic pillar in India's Indian Ocean policy.
During his visit, President Herminie engaged in multi-sectoral discussions in Chennai and Mumbai, focusing on areas such as governance, industry, coastal management, and healthcare. These interactions reflect the broad scope of bilateral cooperation and the commitment to deepening ties across various sectors.
The announcements of the economic package and the signing of MoUs mark a significant step forward in India-Seychelles relations, paving the way for enhanced cooperation, mutual growth, and strengthened bonds between the two maritime neighbors.