India Delivers 250 Metric Tonnes of Food Grains to Seychelles
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 7 (NationPress) On Tuesday, India dispatched a shipment of 250 metric tonnes of food grains to Seychelles, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This initiative is part of a larger commitment under India's USD 175 million Special Economic Package aimed at providing further assistance to the island nation.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared on X, "A shipment of 250 MT food grains has been sent to Seychelles. Additional support will follow under the USD 175 million Special Economic Package pledged to Seychelles."
In February, during his official visit to India, Seychelles President Patrick Herminie expressed gratitude for New Delhi's backing of the archipelago's development, security needs, and aspirations, facilitated through Lines of Credit (LoCs), grants, and High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP).
During a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on February 9, the two leaders discussed a wide range of bilateral relations and agreed to collaborate on digital transformation. Noting the importance of digitizing governance for the benefit of its citizens, India committed to assisting Seychelles in developing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), including digital payments tailored to Seychelles' requirements.
In line with the 'Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages' (SESEL) framework adopted by both nations, PM Modi reiterated India's dedication to being a steadfast partner in Seychelles' national development agenda, emphasizing sustainability, defense, maritime security, capacity building, resilience, and inclusive growth.
"Reiterating their commitment to enhancing and expanding the people-centric development partnership, India unveiled a Special Economic Package worth USD 175 million, which consists of a blended financial aid of USD 125 million in Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance for development cooperation projects, training for civilians and defense personnel, maritime security, and more," the statement detailed.
India's relationship with Seychelles is built upon a foundation of historical ties and ongoing support for its security and development. Today, India and Seychelles share a close friendship characterized by mutual understanding and cooperation. Diplomatic relations were established between the two nations in 1976, following Seychelles' independence.