INDIA, PHILIPPINES ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Overview
India and the Philippines formally elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership during Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s landmark visit to New Delhi in August 2025. The partnership underscores the growing trust, increased defence collaboration, and economic cooperation between the two nations.
Key Highlights of the Partnership
The announcement came after detailed bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Marcos.
A comprehensive Action Plan was formulated to translate the partnership’s potential into tangible results, focusing on peace, security, prosperity, and adherence to a rules-based Indo-Pacific order.
India praised the Philippines for its support in condemning terrorism following the tragic April 2025 Pahalgam attack, strengthening mutual commitments.
Defence and Maritime Cooperation
For the first time, three Indian Navy ships participated in joint exercises in Philippine waters, reinforcing maritime security collaboration in the South China Sea.
Defence dialogue covered weapons procurement, joint training exercises, and expansion of naval assets.
The Philippines also expressed interest in the BrahMos missile system and increased defence acquisitions from India, supported by concessional Lines of Credit.
Economic and Development Collaboration
Bilateral trade crossed $3 billion for the first time, with formal negotiations to initiate a Preferential Trade Agreement.
India committed to scaling up development initiatives under its Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) scheme, focusing on disaster management, agriculture, healthcare, and livelihood support in the Philippines.
A partnership to develop a sovereign data cloud infrastructure in the Philippines was announced, enhancing digital independence and cybersecurity.
Cultural and Diplomatic Significance
The visit coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and the Philippines, marked by the release of commemorative postage stamps.
The relationship is seen as a critical pillar in India’s Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
Statements by Leaders
Prime Minister Modi called the partnership a "major step forward" and emphasized their shared values and friendship.
President Marcos described the partnership as a reaffirmation of growing Indo-Pacific cooperation and expressed optimism about deepening ties.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Q1: What is the significance of the India-Philippines strategic partnership?
It marks a new level of bilateral cooperation focusing on defence, maritime security, economic growth, and digital collaboration.
Q2: When was this strategic partnership announced?
During President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s visit to New Delhi in August 2025.
Q3: What are key areas of defence cooperation?
Joint naval exercises, weapons procurement including BrahMos missiles, and maritime security in the South China Sea.
Q4: How significant is bilateral trade between India and the Philippines?
It recently crossed $3 billion, with plans for a Preferential Trade Agreement underway.
Q5: What development projects will India support in the Philippines?
Focus areas include disaster management, agriculture, healthcare, livelihood support, and digital infrastructure.
Q6: What is the MAHASAGAR vision?
An Indian government initiative aiming at security and growth in the Indo-Pacific region.
Published on: August 5, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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