Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the strong bonds between India and the Philippines, noting the two nations are ‘friends by choice and partners by destiny’. He addressed a joint press meeting, stating the friendship extends beyond the past and ensures a strong future. Celebrating 75 years of diplomatic ties, Modi mentioned the deep cultural links, using the Philippines’ version of the Ramayana, the ‘Maharadia Lawana’, as an example. Both India and the Philippines committed to bolstering their mutual ties further. PM Modi highlighted the Philippines as a key partner in India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision. He also emphasized commitment to peace, security, prosperity and rule-based order in the Indo-Pacific Region. PM Modi expressed support for the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN. Following delegation-level talks with Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., PM Modi announced the establishment of a strategic partnership. An action plan will be implemented to achieve goals, strengthening bilateral trade, which already exceeds $3 billion. The focus is on completing the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement review as soon as possible. They also agreed to a Bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement. Cooperation will expand in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and defense. The International Rice Research Institute’s regional center in Varanasi is working on ultra-low glycemic index rice. Plans include more Quick Impact Projects in the Philippines and the development of sovereign data cloud infrastructure. Space cooperation is also expanding, with an agreement signed during President Marcos Jr.’s visit. Defense ties, including maritime cooperation, are also strengthening. Indian Navy ships are participating in a naval exercise in the Philippines for the first time, including a hydrography ship. President Marcos Jr. was greeted at Rashtrapati Bhavan with a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour. President Marcos Jr. stated that the Indo-Pacific is the proper term, reflecting the current situation of the Asia Pacific region. This visit is President Marcos Jr.’s first to India since taking office and marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
