Defence engagement and capacity building is an integral part of India-Seychelles ties
In a display of the robust defence relationship between the two nations, an Indian Army contingent will participate in the 10th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘Lamitiye-2024’ between the Indian Army and Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF).
 
The Indian contingent for the exercise, being held from March 18-27, 2024, left for Seychelles on Sunday (March 17, 2024). Forty-five personnel each from the Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army and Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) will participate in the exercise.
 
‘Lamitiye’, meaning ‘friendship’ in the Creole language, is a biennial training event and has been conducted in Seychelles since 2001. 
 
According to the Ministry of Defence, the aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability in Sub-conventional Operations in Semi-Urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter on Peacekeeping Operations. The exercise will enhance cooperation and interoperability between both sides during Peacekeeping Operations. The exercise will also build and promote bilateral military relations in addition to exchanging skills, experiences and good practices between both armies
 
Both sides will jointly train, plan and execute a series of well-developed tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats that may be encountered in a semi-urban environment, while exploiting and showcasing new-generation equipment and technology. The 10-day long Joint Exercise will include Field Training Exercise, combat discussions, lectures & demonstrations, which culminates with two days of Validation Exercise, the Ministry of Defence said as it shared information about the joint military drill.
 
"The exercise will contribute immensely in developing mutual understanding and magnify jointness between the troops of both the Armies. The Exercise will also foster collaborative partnership and help in sharing best practices between the two sides," the Ministry of Defence stated. 
 
Close Defence Ties Between India & Seychelles
 
Incidentally, the 12th India-Seychelles High Level Joint Defence Coordination Committee co-chaired by Chief of Seychelles Defence Forces Brig Rosette & Defence Advisor Capt Shirdikant was held at the SDF headquarters on March 16, 2024. The two sides discussed wide ranging issues and matters of common interest to strengthen bilateral relations.
 
The meeting came weeks after Indian Naval Ship Tir participated in the multi-national maritime exercise Exercise Cutlass Express-24 (CE 24) in Seychelles from February 24 to March 6, 2024. 
 
The Indian Navy also handed over repaired Dornier Engines, Dornier Life Rafts to Seychelles Air Force, Machinery and equipment spares as a part of capacity building to the Seychelles Coast Guard. 
 
"Defence engagement and capacity building is an integral part of the warm and cordial India-Seychelles ties and this visit of the Indian Navy 1st training squadron ship will further consolidate this relationship, while augmenting the mutual goal of maritime safety and security," the Indian High Commission said on February 23, 2024.