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India and Seychelles signed an extradition treaty along with eight other agreements during Prime Minister Narendra Modi official visit to the island nation, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.
The agreements cover areas such as maritime security, development cooperation, digital payments, healthcare, space collaboration, and economic assistance, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between India and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean region.
Extradition Treaty Among Key Agreements
The extradition agreement is considered one of the most important outcomes of the visit. The treaty is expected to strengthen cooperation in combating transnational crime, financial offences, and fugitive criminals by facilitating the legal transfer of accused individuals between the two countries.
Officials said the agreement would improve coordination between law enforcement agencies and enhance security cooperation.
PM Modi Emphasizes Indian Ocean Partnership
During talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, Prime Minister Modi described the Indian Ocean as an “ocean of opportunity” and stressed that both countries share responsibility for ensuring its security, prosperity, and sustainability.
He said India and Seychelles have a common vision for regional stability, maritime security, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region.
₹1,250 Crore Line of Credit Announced
India also announced an umbrella line of credit worth ₹1,250 crore to support priority development projects in Seychelles.
The financial assistance will be used for infrastructure, development initiatives, and projects identified by the Seychelles government. The move highlights India’s commitment to supporting the economic growth of the island nation.
UPI and Digital Cooperation
Among the agreements signed was a partnership aimed at introducing India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system in Seychelles.
The agreement is expected to improve digital payment infrastructure and strengthen financial connectivity between the two countries, benefiting businesses, tourists, and financial institutions.
Focus on Defence and Maritime Security
Maritime cooperation remained a major focus of the visit. Prime Minister Modi handed over an India-made patrol vessel to Seychelles to support the country’s maritime security capabilities.
Both nations also discussed coastal surveillance, defence cooperation, and regional security challenges in the Indian Ocean.
Cooperation in Space, Health and Education
The agreements also cover cooperation in space technology, healthcare, agriculture, education, and capacity building.
India and Seychelles are expected to work together on satellite applications, digital services, healthcare initiatives, and skill development programs to strengthen people-to-people ties.
PM Modi Receives Special Honour
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi was awarded Seychelles’ highest honour, the “Guardian of the Blue Horizon” award, recognizing his contribution to maritime cooperation and environmental protection.
Modi dedicated the recognition to countries working to combat climate change and protect ocean ecosystems.
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Strategic Importance of the Visit
Analysts believe the visit has further strengthened India’s position in the Indian Ocean region, where maritime security and strategic partnerships have become increasingly important.
The agreements signed during the visit are expected to deepen cooperation in defence, trade, technology, development, and regional security.
With the extradition treaty and several other agreements now in place, India and Seychelles have signaled their intention to expand their partnership and work closely on issues affecting the Indian Ocean region and beyond.
