Strategic Shift in the Indo-Pacific: India and Philippines Deepen Defence & Economic Ties

 New Delhi, August 5, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic milestone, India and the Philippines elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership during the state visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to India. This move marks a bold step forward in securing shared interests in the Indo-Pacific, with defence and economic cooperation emerging as the central pillars.

During the high-level meeting held at Hyderabad House, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed President Marcos and emphasized the long-standing cultural and diplomatic bonds between the two nations. Both leaders discussed a comprehensive roadmap to expand cooperation in defence, maritime security, trade, digital infrastructure, and regional connectivity.



 Key Defence Announcements:

  • The two countries agreed to enhance joint naval exercises, focusing on maritime security in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean.

  • The BrahMos missile system deal, signed in 2022, received renewed attention with discussions on further technological collaboration.

  • Both sides expressed their intent to boost interoperability between their armed forces through strategic dialogues and defence technology sharing.

 Economic & Developmental Cooperation:

  • India committed to supporting Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) across health, education, and digital governance in the Philippines.

  • Efforts are underway to improve air connectivity, with direct flights being planned between major Indian and Philippine cities.

  • A new bilateral trade facilitation mechanism is also in the works to promote smoother business operations and investment flow.

Prime Minister Modi stated, “Our growing partnership with the Philippines is a vital part of India’s Act East Policy. The shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific strengthens our strategic alignment.”

President Marcos responded warmly, highlighting the “deep trust” between the nations and reaffirming the Philippines’ support for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

 Regional Implications:

This strategic elevation comes amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly with increasing Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea. The India–Philippines partnership, therefore, adds weight to the regional balance of power.

As part of his extended stay, President Marcos is also scheduled to meet Indian business leaders in Bengaluru, interact with the Filipino diaspora, and explore opportunities for collaboration in IT, fintech, and disaster resilience.

The visit has laid the groundwork for a stronger, multifaceted alliance that could shape the regional order in the years to come.

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