New Delhi, India — In a landmark state visit, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. secured an upgraded partnership between the Philippines and India, covering key areas of trade, maritime security, digital technologies, and defense cooperation.
The meeting, held in New Delhi with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral ties as both nations confront common security and economic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
One highlight of the talks was Manila’s reported interest in acquiring additional BrahMos missile systems, bolstering the Philippines’ defense modernization program amid persistent tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The move is expected to enhance deterrence capabilities and reaffirm India’s role as a trusted defense partner.
On the economic front, Marcos and Modi underscored the rapid expansion of trade, which now exceeds $3 billion annually, with commitments to deepen collaboration in agriculture, energy, pharmaceuticals, and digital innovation. The leaders also discussed joint initiatives in renewable energy, technology transfer, and workforce upskilling to future-proof both economies.
“This partnership is about building resilience—not just in defense but in our economies, in digital transformation, and in ensuring stability across the region,” Marcos said in a press briefing.
The upgraded alliance comes at a time of shifting regional dynamics, with both India and the Philippines seeking stronger networks of cooperation to balance geopolitical pressures while unlocking new opportunities for growth.
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