Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the close relationship between India and the Philippines, calling them ‘friends by choice and partners by destiny’ during a joint press meeting. He stated that their friendship is a commitment to the future. Commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, PM Modi noted the strong cultural links, citing the Philippines’ version of the Ramayana, ‘Maharadia Lawana’. India and the Philippines have agreed to further strengthen their ties. PM Modi recognized the Philippines as an important partner in India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision, supporting a rule-based order in the Indo-Pacific Region and freedom of navigation. He pledged full cooperation for the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship. Following discussions with Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., the leaders decided to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership, supported by a comprehensive action plan. The plan aims to boost bilateral trade, which has exceeded $3 billion, and prioritize the review of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, alongside pursuing a Bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement. Cooperation will be strengthened in sectors including agriculture, technology, and defense. The International Rice Research Institute’s regional center in Varanasi is developing ultra-low glycemic index rice. They also plan to increase the number of Quick Impact Projects in the Philippines and cooperate on sovereign data cloud infrastructure. Space cooperation is expanding, with an agreement signed during President Marcos Jr.’s visit. Defense ties are strengthening, particularly in maritime cooperation, exemplified by the Indian Navy’s participation in a naval exercise in the Philippines. President Marcos Jr. was welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhavan with a Guard of Honour. The Philippine President stated that the term ‘Indo-Pacific’ is a suitable evolution of ‘Asia Pacific’, thereby reaffirming the alliance between India and the Philippines. This visit is President Marcos Jr.’s first state visit to India since assuming office and coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
