Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended a ceremonial welcome to the Philippines President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on 5 August 2025.
This high-level diplomatic engagement marks a significant moment in India’s outreach to Southeast Asia, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of India–Philippines diplomatic relations.
Earlier in the day, President Marcos Jr was received at Rashtrapati Bhavan with full honours.
Speaking to the media, he emphasised that the visit reaffirmed the growing partnership between India and the Philippines.
He also noted the shift from Asia-Pacific to the Indo-Pacific framework, describing it as a reflection of evolving global dynamics in politics, trade, and security.
PM Modi and President Marcos Jr held detailed discussions focused on deepening strategic and economic cooperation.
Key topics included defence collaboration, maritime security, trade, and digital innovation.
The talks aimed to reinforce mutual interests and explore avenues for stronger regional influence, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
Strategic and Defence Partnership
Defence cooperation formed a central pillar of the dialogue. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening military ties, particularly in maritime security.
The BrahMos missile deal and planned joint naval exercises further reflect growing defence engagement.
These efforts are viewed as essential for maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea and surrounding waters.
The leaders discussed expanding bilateral trade, which has already crossed the $3 billion mark.
Emphasis was placed on enhancing cooperation in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, digital technology, and startups.
President Marcos Jr is scheduled to visit Bengaluru to explore India’s tech ecosystem, a key step in forging stronger innovation partnerships.
Act East Policy and Regional Outlook
The Ministry of External Affairs underscored that ties with the Philippines are a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.
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.
Ours is not just a friendship of the past, it is a promise to the future: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 5, 2025
The visit aligns with India’s broader goal of enhancing regional cooperation, particularly through ASEAN and other multilateral platforms.
Both sides highlighted their shared democratic values and commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
This state visit builds on prior meetings between PM Modi and President Marcos at the ASEAN and East Asia Summits.
It not only cements diplomatic rapport but also sets the tone for long-term strategic alignment.
The Philippines’ President’s engagements with Indian leaders and visits to key institutions reflect the depth of this evolving partnership.
President Marcos Jr is accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and is scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, Union Ministers, and business leaders during his stay.
His visit to Rajghat and Bengaluru further reflects the cultural and technological depth of the partnership.
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