India, Seychelles ink five pacts in taxation, agriculture, maritime security

India and Seychelles inked five agreements in different sectors including taxation, agricultural research and maritime security. In his statement after holding talks with visiting President of Seychelles James Alix Michel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed Seychelles as a key strategic partner. 

Mr Modi said, the two countries have excellent security cooperation, especially for maritime security in Indian Ocean Region. The Prime Minister said, India will provide second Dornier maritime patrol plane to Seychelles. He said, today's Air Services Agreement will enable more and easier connections between the two countries. 

Mr Modi appreciated Seychelles’ support for India’s candidature for permanent membership of expanded United Nations Security Council. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, bilateral agreement for cooperation on blue economy is a huge step forward in the relationship and in promoting sustainable ocean economy in the region. 

He said, India is looking forward to cooperate in Space, including in the areas of managing land and marine resources, fisheries advisory, weather forecasting and disaster management. Mr Modi expressed confidence that this milestone year for the relationship between the two countries will be the spring board for taking strategic partnership to a new level. 

President James Alix Michel said, his visit to India will further strengthen the strategic and bilateral relations. 
Earlier, the visiting dignitary was accorded ceremonial reception this morning at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were present at the reception. Mr Michel inspected the Guard of Honour, at the ceremonial reception. The visiting dignitary also laid wreath at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi. The President of the Republic of Seychelles is on a three day visit to India.