Is Philippines President Marcos Strengthening Defence and Trade Ties with India During His 5-Day Visit?
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Synopsis
Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is on a five-day visit to India, aiming to enhance defence and trade relations. This significant trip, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties, includes high-level meetings with Indian leaders and discussions on strategic cooperation, especially in maritime security. Will this lead to a new era in India-Philippines relations?
Key Takeaways
- President Marcos' visit aims to strengthen bilateral defence and trade relations.
- The timing coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
- Significant defence agreements are expected, particularly in maritime security.
- The Philippines is a key partner in India's Act East Policy.
- Historical and cultural ties enrich the relationship between the two nations.
New Delhi, Aug 4 (NationPress) President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the Philippines is set to touch down in New Delhi on Monday for a five-day state visit that aims to fortify defence and trade relations between India and the Philippines.
This visit is significant as it marks his first official trip to India since he took office in 2022.
President Marcos will arrive at Air Force Station Palam in the afternoon, accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos along with a high-level entourage, including Cabinet Ministers, senior officials, and business executives. The timing of his visit aligns with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, adding a layer of symbolic importance to the upcoming discussions.
The agenda for the visit is expected to lead to enhanced strategic and defence cooperation, particularly in the maritime arena.
The Philippines has notably become the first international buyer of India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, with the initial shipment received on April 19, 2024. An agreement to deepen defence collaboration, especially in maritime security, is also anticipated to be signed during this trip.
President Marcos is slated to engage in bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 5. He will also meet with President Droupadi Murmu and is scheduled to be received by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar at 5:00 p.m. Monday at the Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi.
Before concluding his trip on August 8, President Marcos is expected to visit Bengaluru.
India's Ministry of External Affairs has highlighted that the Philippines is a crucial partner in India's Act East Policy, Vision MAHASAGAR, and overall Indo-Pacific strategy. This partnership is not just based on strategic interests but also on profound historical and cultural connections.
The Tagalog language contains many words derived from Sanskrit, and archaeological discoveries like the Laguna Copperplate inscription and the Agusan Tara statue serve as evidence of long-standing ties.
Diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines were formally established in November 1949. Since the introduction of India’s Look East Policy in 1992, which later evolved into the Act East Policy, the bilateral relationship has expanded significantly, notably through cooperation within ASEAN.
President Marcos and PM Modi last had a brief encounter at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit in Laos in October 2024, having also met previously in Jakarta during the 20th ASEAN-India Summit in 2023.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the importance of President Marcos' visit to India. This engagement not only aims to bolster defence and trade but also underscores the historical and cultural ties that bind the two nations. It is a strategic move that aligns with India's Act East Policy, fostering greater cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The relationship is poised for growth, reflecting mutual interests and shared values.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of President Marcos' visit to India?
The primary objective of President Marcos' visit is to enhance defence and trade relations between the Philippines and India, marking the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.
When did diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines begin?
Diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines were formally established in November 1949.
What key agreements are expected during this visit?
During this visit, it is anticipated that agreements will be signed to enhance defence collaboration, particularly in maritime security.
What is the significance of the BrahMos missile system in this visit?
The Philippines became the first foreign nation to procure the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, highlighting the growing defence ties between the two countries.
How does this visit align with India's foreign policy?
This visit aligns with India's Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy, underscoring the Philippines' role as a key partner in regional security.
