New Delhi, Feb 9 (NationPress) President Patrick Herminie of Seychelles expressed appreciation for India's backing in the archipelago's development, security, and aspirations through Lines of Credit (LoCs), grants, capacity building, and High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP).

In a series of constructive discussions in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Herminie explored the full range of bilateral relations and committed to collaborating on digital transformation. Emphasizing the importance of digitizing governance for the populace of Seychelles, India pledged support for the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), including digital payments tailored to Seychelles' specific needs.

Under the 'Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth, and Security through Enhanced Linkages' (SESEL) agreement, PM Modi reaffirmed India's dedication to being a dependable partner in Seychelles' national development agenda, emphasizing sustainability, defense, maritime security, capacity building, resilience, and inclusive growth.

To strengthen their partnership, India unveiled a ‘Special Economic Package’ worth USD 175 million, which encompasses USD 125 million in Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance aimed at development cooperation projects, capacity building for civilians and defense officials, maritime security, and more.

President Herminie expressed gratitude to PM Modi for providing 10 ambulances to Seychelles. The two leaders also concurred that the recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) by Seychelles would simplify the procurement of quality assured essential medicines and improve access to affordable medications via India’s Jan Aushadhi initiative.

They agreed on implementing training programs and facilitating exchange visits focused on mental health through institutional partnerships. Additionally, both leaders supported the recruitment and deployment of medical specialists, nurses, paramedics, and technicians from India to address Seychelles' healthcare needs.

PM Modi and Herminie also aimed to enhance bilateral collaboration in public health through exchange visits and institutional connections. The two leaders committed to jointly support the construction of a new hospital in Seychelles, as stated in their joint declaration.

They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in renewable energy and climate resilience, including innovative clean energy solutions. Herminie acknowledged India’s role in assisting Seychelles with its renewable energy objectives, as outlined in the joint statement.

President Herminie noted that the solar power initiatives under the auspices of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), supported by the Indian government, have yielded significant community-level benefits, particularly in agriculture and healthcare. The two leaders agreed on the implementation of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems in Seychelles.

India also committed to providing technical assistance to Seychelles in managing its power grid and aiding the nation’s transition to a green public transport system. PM Modi and Herminie expressed their intention to identify new cooperation avenues and projects in energy conservation, sustainability, renewable energy, and green mobility tailored to Seychelles' needs.