India-Philippines Strategic Partnership

NDIA AND Philippines had warm relations for a number of years.

- MAJ GEN P K CHAKRAVORTY (RETD)

However, their geopolitical standing differed. While India believed in strategic autonomy, Philippines was an ally of the US. As relations evolved, India became a member of the Quad and in 2014 advocated freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. Further, India and Philippines were contesting Chines maritime assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific which led to political and diplomatic convergence between the two countries. Further India's Act East Policy has paid rich dividends in making both the nations realise their commonality of strategic interests. In 2022, India signed a $375-million deal with the Philippines which further led to strengthening of relations. All this led to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to visit India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from August 4 to 8.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

The historic visit of President Marcos Jr, resulted in the establishment of a Strategic Partnership between the two countries. Issues linked to this major declaration which merits importance are as enumerated below:

• Occasion coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Philippines. It also acknowledges the longstanding friendship based on mutual respect, trust, civilisational contacts, shared values and culture.

• Upholds the deep cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1949.

• Strengthens the bonds of friendship which commenced with the Treaty of Friendship signed on July 11, 1952, the Memorandum of Understanding on Policy Consultation talks signed on October 5, 2007, and the Declaration on the Framework of Bilateral Cooperation signed on October 5, 2007, between two countries. In addition, there was a natural desire to strengthen the historical ties to a higher level of strategic cooperation.