India and Seychelles agree to boost trade, tourism ties

India and Seychelles today agreed to hold road shows to promote their respective tourist destinations in each other's country.
In a bilateral meeting held here, both sides also agreed upon a suggestion to consider a direct non-stop flight between the two countries to boost trade and tourism.
Tourism and Culture Minister Shripad Naik and his counterpart from Seychelles Alain St. Ange held a delegation level bilateral meeting to discuss tourism cooperation between the two countries.
During the 45-minute meet, both sides noted the important link India has with Seychelles in the form of Indian nationals - mostly from Tamil Nadu and later on from Gujarat - who have been among the earliest inhabitants of this island. Together they constitute around 7 per cent of the total population, a release said.

During the meeting both the sides agreed to the view that a direct non-stop flight between India and Seychelles will promote trade and tourism between the two countries in a significant way. Both the sides decided to consider this suggestion.
The visiting side showed interest in India's medical tourism, expertise in museums and archives, digitisation of records and creative graphic designing. They sought India's help in the fields and India agreed to consider their request.
Alain St. Ange extended invitation to Naik to visit the country in October to attend India's Day in Seychelles and UNWTO Meeting which is scheduled to be held there.

During the meeting, India invited investment from Seychelles in the hotel sector. India allows 100 per cent FDI in hotel sector on automated basis. The visiting minister of Seychelles agreed to explore the possibilities of promoting investment in the field of hotel industry in India, the release added.