New Delhi, April 7 – India sent a consignment of 250 metric tonnes of food grains to Seychelles on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced, adding that New Delhi will also provide further assistance to the country as part of its USD 175 million Special Economic Package.
"A consignment of 250 MT of food grains has been sent to Seychelles. More assistance will be provided under the USD 175 million Special Economic Package committed to Seychelles," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.
In February, during his State Visit to India, Seychelles President Patrick Herminie had acknowledged New Delhi's support for the development, security needs, and aspirations of the island nation through Lines of Credit (LoCs), grants, capacity building, and High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP).
Herminie met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on February 9, and the two leaders discussed a wide range of bilateral relations, agreeing to also work closely in digital transformation. Noting the need for Seychelles to digitize its governance for the benefit of its people, India agreed to make efforts on the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), including digital payments, as per the needs and requirements of Seychelles.
According to the 'Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages' (SESEL) adopted by both countries, PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to remaining a reliable partner in the national development agenda of Seychelles, with a focus on sustainability, defence, maritime security, capacity building, resilience, and inclusive growth.
"Reaffirming their commitment to work closely to expand and intensify the people-centric development partnership between the two countries, India announced a 'Special Economic Package' of USD 175 million, which will include blended financial assistance of USD 125 million in Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in Grant assistance for development cooperation projects, capacity building for civilians and defence officials, maritime security, etc.," the statement detailed.
India's bilateral engagement with Seychelles is characterized by historical contacts and continuous support for its security and development. Today, India and Seychelles enjoy close friendship, understanding, and cooperation. Diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles were established in 1976 after latter's independence.