Climate change is an existential issue for island nations. Are Seychelles and India working together on this front?

Climate change remains an existential threat for island nations, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Seychelles. In this context, Seychelles has emerged as a global champion in environmental protection and ocean stewardship, consistently advocating for sustainable development, marine conservation, and climate resilience on the international stage.

Seychelles is internationally regarded as a pioneer in:

• The development of the Blue Economy concept
• The creation of one of the world’s largest marine protected areas (over 30% of its EEZ). This goal was achieved in 2020, ten years before the targeted year.
• Innovative climate finance mechanisms, including the world’s first sovereign blue bond and debt-for-nature swaps

Like many countries, India, recognizing Seychelles’ leadership and unique vulnerabilities, continues to be a committed and reliable partner in supporting its climate and environmental priorities.

Acknowledging Seychelles’ proactive and principled environmental diplomacy and actively supporting its efforts to remain at the forefront of sustainable ocean governance and climate advocacy, India, through a bilateral partnership, supports Seychelles in addressing its most pressing climate adaptation needs in:

• Coastal protection infrastructure to combat sea-level rise and erosion
• Renewable energy deployment, particularly solar solutions under India’s grant assistance programs, etc.
• Disaster risk reduction and early warning systems, aligned with Seychelles’ National Climate Change Strategy and NDCs

These initiatives contribute directly to safeguarding Seychelles’ communities, biodiversity, and economic sectors vulnerable to climate-induced shocks.

Also, as a founding member of the International Solar Alliance, Seychelles continues to partner with India in advancing solar energy initiatives tailored to the needs of small island nations. India has facilitated technical expertise and concessional finance for solar PV installations, joint training and capacity-building under ISA’s programs for energy planners and engineers.

This cooperation supports Seychelles’ goal of increasing renewable energy to 15% of total electricity production by 2030 and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Advancing a Blue and Green Agenda: Seychelles’ vision of a resilient blue economy is well aligned with India’s emphasis on sustainable development and regional maritime cooperation.

Multilateral Advocacy and South-South Solidarity: India and Seychelles share aligned positions in multilateral climate negotiations, advocating for greater access to climate finance for SIDS, loss and damage recognition, equitable technology transfer, etc.

Their partnership reflects a broader commitment to South-South cooperation and ensures that the priorities of vulnerable states like Seychelles are not only heard but acted upon. India’s collaboration with Seychelles in the fight against climate change is rooted in deep mutual respect and recognition of Seychelles’ global leadership in environmental and oceanic governance. This enduring partnership is not only vital for addressing national adaptation needs, but also for advancing a more inclusive and sustainable global climate agenda, one in which Seychelles continues to serve as a model and moral voice for island nations around the world. Seychelles–India Cooperation on Climate Change is a partnership anchored in Environmental Leadership.

How do you view the potential for increased trade and tourism between our countries?

Yes, there is significant potential for increased trade and tourism between Seychelles and India. Both nations should spare no efforts in exploring avenues to deepen their economic and cultural ties, leveraging their complementary strengths and shared interests.

Trade Relations Opportunities could be in:

• Diversification of Export Products: Seychelles has the opportunity to diversify its export portfolio to India, focusing on sectors such as sustainable seafood, organic agricultural products, and eco-friendly goods, aligning with India’s growing demand for sustainable imports.
• Infrastructure Development: Collaborations in port development and logistics can enhance trade efficiency, facilitating smoother export processes for Seychelles and expanding market access in India.
• Investment in Technology and Innovation: Joint ventures in technology sectors, including information technology and renewable energy, can foster innovation and create new avenues for trade.
• Tourism: Enhancing Connectivity and Cultural Exchange
• Indian Tourists to Seychelles: Seychelles is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for Indian tourists, attracted by its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and unique cultural experiences.
• Seychellois Visitors to India: There is also a growing interest among Seychellois travelers to visit India, particularly for cultural, educational, and medical tourism.

The launch of Indigo flight to Seychelles last March, with four flights a week, is a major step towards the realization of these targets.

Opportunities for Growth:

• Direct Air Connectivity: Establishing direct flights between major Indian cities and Seychelles can significantly boost tourist arrivals, reducing travel time and costs.
• Joint Tourism Campaigns: Collaborative marketing efforts can promote both destinations, highlighting shared cultural heritage and unique attractions to attract tourists.
• Cultural Exchange Programmes: Organizing cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and culinary events can foster mutual understanding and attract tourists interested in cultural experiences.

In brief, the growing trade and tourism relations between Seychelles and India present substantial opportunities for both nations.

By focusing on diversification, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange, Seychelles and India can build a robust partnership that enhances economic prosperity and cultural ties.