India, Seychelles agree to work on naval project

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Danny Faure on Monday agreed to work together on the Assumption Island project based on "each other's interests", days after reports from the island nation of it cancelling the pact with India to develop a naval base there jointly.

After their comprehensive and "frank" discussions on critical areas, including security, Modi also announced a USD 100-million line of credit to Seychelles, which Faure said would help boost his country's military infrastructure.

"We have agreed to work together on the Assumption Island project based on each other's interests," Modi said at a joint press event with the visiting leader here.

India is keen on developing the Assumption Island in the Indian Ocean as a naval base to expand its footprint in the strategically-key region where China has been trying to enhance its military presence. An agreement to develop the island was inked in 2015 between India and Seychelles.

However, there has been growing political opposition in Seychelles, forcing Faure to say the country would develop military facilities at the island on its own and that the project with India "will not move forward".

After his meeting with Modi, Faure said, "In the context of maritime security, the Assumption Island was discussed. We are equally engaged and will continue to work together bearing each other's interests in mind."