What Did EAM Jaishankar Discuss with Philippines Foreign Secretary in the US?
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Synopsis
In an important meeting ahead of the UNGA, EAM S. Jaishankar and Philippines Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro discussed strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. This dialogue follows President Marcos Jr.'s recent visit to India, illustrating the commitment of both nations to work closely together.
Key Takeaways
- EAM S. Jaishankar and Theresa Lazaro met ahead of UNGA 80.
- They discussed cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The meeting follows a recent visit by President Marcos Jr. to India.
- PM Modi highlighted the longstanding cultural ties between the two nations.
- Both countries are committed to strengthening their strategic partnership.
New York, Sep 22 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar engaged with the Philippines Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro on Monday (Indian time), just prior to the commencement of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
The two leaders explored avenues for collaboration between India and the Philippines within the UN framework and the Indo-Pacific region, following the recent state visit of Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to India.
EAM Jaishankar expressed on X, "It was a pleasure meeting Secretary of Foreign Affairs Theresa Lazaro of the Philippines at the onset of UNGA 80 in New York. We followed up on the recent State Visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to India and discussed our cooperation in the UN and the Indo-Pacific region."
Lazaro also shared on X their meeting, stating it "reaffirms our two countries' commitment as Strategic Partners to actively enhance cooperation in political, defence and security, the maritime domain, and more."
Earlier in August, President Marcos undertook a five-day State visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During a joint press conference with President Marcos at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi, PM Modi praised the relationship between India and the Philippines, deeming the two nations "friends by choice and partners by destiny."
He highlighted that even though the diplomatic ties are relatively new, the cultural connection between the two nations has deep roots, citing the Philippines' Ramayana Maharadia Lawana as a "living proof" of their historical ties.
"India and the Philippines are friends by choice and partners by destiny. From the Indian Ocean to the Pacific, we are united by shared values. Our friendship is not only a legacy of the past; it is a promise for the future," stated PM Modi.
President Marcos Jr. also expressed commitment to collaborate with India toward a free and open Indo-Pacific, expressing satisfaction with the rapid modernization of the Philippines' defence capabilities and the expanding role of India's indigenous defence industry, as illustrated by the BrahMos project.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that the meeting between EAM Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Lazaro marks a pivotal moment in India-Philippines relations. With a shared commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors, this dialogue could redefine strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main agenda of the meeting between EAM Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Lazaro?
The primary focus was on enhancing cooperation between India and the Philippines in the UN and the Indo-Pacific region.
What recent event prompted this meeting?
The meeting followed the state visit of Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to India.
How did PM Modi describe India-Philippines relations?
PM Modi referred to the two nations as 'friends by choice and partners by destiny,' emphasizing their cultural ties.
