India's $175 Million Seychelles Investment: Strategic Move for Regional Influence

• India's $175 million economic package for Seychelles is a strategic move with significant regional implications, extending beyond routine diplomacy.
• The Western Indian Ocean (WIO) is a critical sub-geography within the Indo-Pacific, vital for global trade and energy flows, making Seychelles' central location strategically important.
• Seychelles, despite its small landmass, possesses an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 1.3 million sq km, crucial for regional stability and India's maritime security objectives.
• The investment strengthens India's maritime footprint, enhancing surveillance and operational reach in the WIO through security cooperation and joint initiatives.
• This partnership aligns with India's MAHASAGAR vision, aiming to build a cohesive maritime security architecture and promote inclusive growth in the Indian Ocean, positioning India as a reliable partner in the Global South.