India and Seychelles sign MoU on mutual recognition of Seafarers’ Training and Certification
Agreement expands global employment opportunities for Indian seafarers and strengthens maritime cooperation between the two countries
REPUBLIC of SEYCHELLES : As a key outcome of the State Visit of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the Republic of Seychelles, India and Seychelles have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Recognition of Training and Certification of Seafarers, marking a significant milestone in bilateral maritime cooperation.
The agreement provides for the mutual recognition of Indian seafarers’ training, competency certificates, and professional qualifications, enabling qualified Indian seafarers to serve on Seychelles-flagged vessels in accordance with international maritime standards. The MoU is expected to enhance the global mobility of India’s highly skilled maritime workforce while creating new employment opportunities in the international shipping sector.
India is one of the world’s leading suppliers of qualified seafarers, renowned for its robust maritime education system, internationally compliant training institutes, and adherence to the standards prescribed under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). The agreement further reinforces India’s reputation as a trusted provider of competent and professionally trained maritime personnel.
The MoU also reflects the shared commitment of India and Seychelles to deepen maritime collaboration, promote capacity building, and strengthen institutional partnerships in the blue economy. By facilitating greater exchange of skilled maritime professionals, the agreement will contribute to safer, more efficient, and sustainable shipping operations while supporting the growing demand for qualified seafarers in the global maritime industry.
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision of positioning the country as a global maritime talent hub and complements ongoing efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the Indian shipping sector through skill development, international cooperation, and regulatory harmonisation. It also advances India’s broader maritime vision under Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which seek to strengthen maritime infrastructure, boost seafarer employment, and expand India’s presence in global shipping.
The signing of the MoU underscores the enduring partnership between India and Seychelles and reaffirms both countries’ commitment to fostering stronger maritime ties, enhancing people-to-people connections, and contributing to the growth of the global maritime ecosystem through cooperation and shared expertise.
