Seychelles to Command New Assomption Coast Guard Base After India Visit
VICTORIA, Seychelles — The governments of Seychelles and India have agreed to construct a coast guard base on Assomption Island that will remain under the full supervision and control of the Seychelles Defence Forces, President Patrick Herminie confirmed on Tuesday following his official state visit to India from February 5 to 10. Speaking at a press conference at State House, President Herminie was unequivocal that the facility would serve Seychellois strategic interests exclusively, stating that under no circumstances would there be a military base for India on Assomption or any island under the Aldabra group.
The announcement carries significant implications for ordinary Seychellois, as a permanent and well-equipped coast guard presence in the Aldabra group will enhance Seychelles’ capacity to patrol its exclusive economic zone against illegal fishing, piracy, and narcotics trafficking, protecting the Blue Economy on which thousands of livelihoods depend. The base will include surveillance operations using patrol boats and drones, and foreign naval vessels may be permitted to refuel there where necessary.
President Herminie explained that India’s support stems from its interest in a secure Indian Ocean region, noting that Seychelles holds strategic importance due to its location near major trade routes and areas vulnerable to illegal activities, and that the country currently lacks the capacity to patrol this region effectively. Seven memoranda of understanding were signed during the state visit, covering digital transformation, health, military cooperation, food security, and cultural and youth exchanges, according to a State House press release. Seychelles’ engagement with the Colombo Security Conclave, which includes India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Mauritius, was also reinforced.
The state visit produced a broad package of agreements affecting daily life for Seychellois. India pledged to supply the Seychelles Trading Company with more affordable products, with a reduction in commodity prices expected within months. Seychelles secured a loan of US $125 million and a grant of US $50 million for housing development to be utilised over three to four years, while Minister for Health Dr Mervin Fanny confirmed that Seychelles will now recognise medicines manufactured in India, opening access to drugs that are 40 to 60 percent cheaper, alongside a donation of 10 ambulances and paramedic training.
Minister for Transport Veronique Laporte announced plans to introduce electric buses featuring air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and tinted windows, with two buses expected to arrive by the end of April for testing on steeper routes. The government’s long-term plan is to replace 100 old buses with hybrid, electric, and low-emission models, and discussions are ongoing with suppliers to ensure batteries are recycled after seven years of use. Electric buses are also expected to lower fares for commuters.
President Herminie concluded by reaffirming that while ties with India have been strengthened, Seychelles will continue to pursue bilateral partnerships with other nations, underlining the government’s commitment to a balanced and diversified foreign policy.
