Delhi, 5 August (H.S.): President

of Philippines Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visited India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit commenced with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by tributes at Raj Ghat and bilateral discussions. The leaders marked the 75th anniversary of India-Philippines diplomatic ties, highlighting respect, shared values, and culture as underpinnings for their relationship. Recognizing key agreements, they emphasized a commitment to enhance cooperation for mutual prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Both leaders announced the establishment of a Strategic Partnership aimed at bolstering cooperation across multiple domains, supported by a Plan of Action for 2025-2029. This partnership seeks to elevate collaboration in political, defense, security, economic, and social arenas. In political cooperation, they committed to regular high-level exchanges, operationalizing existing agreements, and fostering legislative interactions for better mutual understanding.

In defense and security, they acknowledged existing agreements, emphasizing institutional dialogue and enhancement of military training, maritime cooperation, and joint surveillance. They also agreed on initiatives in defense production and maritime security, along with commitments to combat terrorism and cyber threats.

Economically, the agenda aims to increase bilateral trade, which was approximately $3.3 billion in 2024-2025, and to pursue a Preferential Trade Agreement to facilitate commerce. They plan to establish strong trade and investment frameworks, promoting joint ventures in vital sectors such as renewable energy, technology, infrastructure, and tourism.

Additionally, the partnership will promote people-to-people exchanges, cultural ties, and cooperation in creative industries. Commitments include regular dialogues on developmental cooperation, climate action, and technological advancements, reinforcing both nations' dedication to a free and resilient Indo-Pacific. The partnership aims to support ASEAN centrality and enhance maritime safety through collaborative efforts.

Key outcomes of the visit included the following agreements and declarations:

1. Establishment of Strategic Partnership Declaration.

2. India-Philippines Strategic Partnership: Plan of Action (2025-29).

3. Terms of Reference for Air Staff Talks, Army-to-Army Talks, and Navy-to-Navy Talks.

4. Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty.

5. Transfer of Sentenced Persons Treaty.

6. Cooperation Program in Science and Technology (2025-2028).

7. Tourism Cooperation Program (2025-2028).

8. MOU on Digital Technologies Cooperation.

9. Space Cooperation Statement of Intent.

10. Enhanced Maritime Cooperation Terms of Reference.

11. Cultural Exchange Programme.

Announcements included India’s support for a Sovereign Data Cloud project in the Philippines, an invitation for Philippine participation in the Indian Ocean Region’s Information Fusion Centre, a one-year gratis e-tourist visa for Filipinos, joint issuance of a commemorative stamp for the diplomatic relationship anniversary, and terms of reference for a Preferential Trade Agreement negotiation.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar