While the Indian vice-president’s diplomatic visit to Seychelles is all but over, his departure for India on Friday September 12,  will leave an already cordial relationship between the two countries in improved shape, say foreign ministry officials.

In addition to India’s US$1 million grant for small-scale industries and a US$50,000 donation for anti-retroviral drugs, the four memoranda of understanding signed on Wednesday September 10, were at least for Seychelles, one of the more notable developments during Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat’s visit.

But the partnership does not end with the memoranda, as both parties have alluded to more cooperation regarding the private sector in the future, resulting in the signing of a bilateral investment promotion and protection agreement.

According to Alain Butler-Payet, principal secretary for foreign affairs, the accord between India and Seychelles will bring more investors to both countries, due to guaranteed investments and also exemptions which would allow businesses to avoid double taxation.

The memoranda, meanwhile, generally call for educational and personnel exchanges between the two countries across four areas – technology, defence, health care, and culture.  But other provisions are included in the agreements as well.

Under the science and technology memorandum, India and Seychelles will undergo joint research and development projects, along with a series of scientific conferences and symposia.  The two countries will also share their experience in ocean research and coastal zone environment management.

The Seychelles People’s Defence Forces (SPDF) will continue to be a beneficiary of India’s military support, as the memorandum for defence will see additional consultation from Indian defence advisers and experts.  Training programmes in India for SPDF personnel will remain a staple of defence cooperation.

India will also provide expertise in developing hydrographic surveys of maritime areas in Seychelles.  Last month’s visit of the Indian Naval Ship Investigator laid some of the groundwork hydrographic charts to be updated by another Indian vessel later in the year.

In addition, India will transfer certain defence technology to the SPDF, including patrol vessels, small arms and a Dornier 228 aircraft, although no specific time table is mentioned.

Seychellois could see more availability of medical treatment in India for certain ailments as a result of the health care memorandum. Currently, the Ministry of Health runs a programme with an Indian hospital for patients suffering from kidney failure, but India said it would assist Seychelles in identifying other institutions that could also provide specialised treatment.

In turn, Seychelles would seek to purchase medicine and medical equipment from Indian firms.

Lastly, a cultural exchange programme from 2003 to 2005 will facilitate study trips, both in India and Seychelles, centered on art, music, dance and literature.  An official invitation will be extended to India for participation in the Festival Kreol as part of the programme.

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