NEWDELHI: In the backdrop of the strategic position in pirate-infested Indian Ocean, Seychelles President James Michel met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday, and described India as his country’s “main development partner”. On his third visit to India in as many years, Michel will attend the Delhi Sustainable Development Summit.
“Matters of mutual interests, including international, regional and bilateral were discussed. Both leaders reaffirmed their close and abiding relationship and India was acknowledged as the main development partner for the Seychelles,” said a press release issued by the MEA.
This development is noteworthy as Seychelles had been in news following reports that China was setting up a military base there.
The Seychelles Government rubbished the reports, stating that the facility was a refuelling station, which was provided to other countries, including India. “The two leaders also discussed issues relating to piracy and its consequent impact on security, tourism and fisheries,” the statement added.