Philippines' strategic partnership with India could irk China - analysts

CHINA may become more aggressive in asserting its South China Sea claims after the Philippines and India forged a strategic partnership, a move that could help counter Beijing's expansive claims in the disputed waters, analysts said on Sunday.

- By Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio and Chloe Mari A. Hufana Reporters

Manila and New Delhi's shared disputes with China may signal to Beijing that their deepening ties are aimed at challenging its influence in the Indo-Pacific region, said Josue Raphael J. Cortez, a diplomacy instructor at the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde's School of Diplomacy and Governance.

"China will undoubtedly undertake more aggressive actions brought about by the deepening of ties between the Philippines and India," he said in a Facebook Messenger chat.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately reply to a Viber message seeking comment.

Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., last week went on a five-day state visit to India, during which Manila elevated its ties with New Delhi to a strategic partnership and secured a range of agreements spanning defense, maritime cooperation, and investments.