New Delhi: In an effort to boost the defence relations with Seychelles, India on Tuesday handed over a Dornier aircraft to visiting Seychelles President Danny Faure at Palam Technical Area here.The aircraft was handed over by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in the presence of her junior minister General VK Singh.
The aircraft will enhance surveillance capability of Seychelles to tackle maritime threats.
Speaking on the occasion, President Faure said, "On behalf of the people of Seychelles and the government, I would like to say thank you to India. We will always be a faithful friend and partner to India. Long live our healthy relations."
"To enhance the surveillance capability of Seychelles to tackle maritime threats, our Prime Minister had announced the gifting of a second Dornier aircraft during his landmark visit to Seychelles in March 2015," said Ms Swaraj.
"India and Seychelles share a special relationship. Our strategic convergence has been built on the foundation of our shared values and common aspirations. Our relationship has flourished over the years across various spheres," said the external affairs minister.
"As maritime neighbours, we are committed to securing our oceanic space for sustained development. Securing our seas will ultimately lead to creating a peaceful environment for the progress and prosperity of our two countries and peoples. It forms part of our SAGAR vision articulated by our Prime Minister ? an acronym that denotes --- Security and Growth for All in the Region," Ms Swaraj said.
On June 29, Seychelles will celebrate its 42nd Independence Day, where the aircraft will be displayed.Announcing its display on the Independence Day, Mr Faure said, "This new Dornier will fly to Seychelles and participate in 42nd anniversary of our Independence."
Bangalore-based Hindustan Aeronautic Limited (HAL) was supposed to deliver this aircraft in March 2019. "Contractually, we had to deliver this craft in March 2019. But Seychelles requested us for early delivery. So we fast-tracked it and deliver them before their national day," said HAL Chairman T Suvarna Raju.Earlier, India had gifted the Seychelles coast guard a fast track vessel, a Dornier aircraft, and two helicopters.(UNI)