Philippines, India eye strategic partnership in defense, trade, tech

Philippines and India are considering elevating their relationship to a strategic partnership due to growing engagement in various areas, including defense, maritime security, and information technology.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo highlighted during his visit to India that relations between the two countries have significantly improved, particularly in trade and defense, and expressed optimism for a 'very bright future' ahead.

Manalo emphasized expanding cooperation beyond traditional economic ties into new sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and military equipment.

Both nations share a common perspective on regional security, focusing on promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of official relations.

India delivered BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines in April 2024, marking another milestone in their defense cooperation amid heightened tensions in the South China Sea.

The Philippines and India have been engaged in maritime exercises aimed at ensuring economic and political freedom in the Indo-Pacific region.