India and Seychelles engaged in discussions on enhancing maritime security cooperation on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue, a premier security summit held in Singapore. The talks, which took place between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Seychelles Vice President Ahmed Afif, focused on strengthening bilateral ties in the Indian Ocean region.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The two leaders deliberated on several key areas, including capacity building, information sharing, and joint exercises to address common maritime challenges. Both sides emphasized the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, adhering to international laws and norms.
Strategic Significance
Seychelles, an archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean, holds strategic importance for India's maritime security framework. The discussions underscored the mutual commitment to ensure stability and security in the region, which is vital for global trade and energy flows.
India has been actively engaging with island nations in the Indian Ocean to bolster maritime domain awareness and counter piracy, illegal fishing, and other transnational threats. The meeting at Shangri-La Dialogue reflects the deepening defense partnership between the two countries.
Both sides agreed to continue their collaboration under the existing bilateral mechanisms and explore new avenues for cooperation, including in the fields of hydrography and maritime surveillance.
