Is India planning military base on Seychelles’ Assomption Island? Foreign Secretary responds

During a media interaction in Seychelles, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri responded to three key questions following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. On connectivity, he confirmed that India and Seychelles discussed expanding shipping and aviation links, while noting that direct routes ultimately depend on commercial operators. On development cooperation, he highlighted India's $175 million Special Economic Package, covering sectors such as housing, maritime security, healthcare, digital infrastructure, cyber security, AI and green mobility. Responding to questions on Assomption Island, Misri clarified that any future cooperation would be guided by the priorities of the Seychelles government and its people. Asked what India expects in return for its assistance, Misri stressed that India-Seychelles ties are not transactional.