India, Seychelles Sign Agreement On Tourism

The agreement envisages tourism exchanges between the two countries, mutual promotion and publicity, simplifying the formalities required for visits, cooperation between hoteliers and tour operators, exploringthe possibility of joint ventures in the sector and information exchange in the field of tourism vocational training.

Jena was confident that following the agreement, tourists visiting Seychelles could be attracted to India as well. India could also benefit from the exchange of information on setting up island resorts and leisure activities, he said.

The minister said, Although the arrivals from Seychelles to India was only 724, visitors would increase after the agreement. Comarmond said the agreement would help increase the flow of tourists between the two countries.

 

A direct flight to Seychelles would help. We have not really thought about that, but Air India might like to look at such a proposal,

Comarmond said, adding that this would be successful as both countries have close cultural links.

Last year, 120,000-odd tourists visited the island republic, of which not many were Indians. The Seychelles minister said they were not expecting many Indian tourists as Seychelles is a high spending destinatiion.

She, however, said that Indian films being shot in Seychelles was making the country more popular. The economy of the country depends a lot on tourism, she said. With a population of about 78,000, Seychelles is spread over 115 islands.