India and the Philippines Elevate Bilateral Cooperation
India and the Philippines have agreed to elevate their bilateral cooperation to a strategic partnership. This advancement was highlighted by the recent purchase of the BrahMos missile system.
Strategic Partnership Details
- India emphasized the friendship and strategic partnership, noting the Philippines as a vital partner in India's Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision.
- Commitment to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, supporting freedom of navigation per international laws, indirectly referencing China's territorial claims.
- A comprehensive action plan to actualize the potential of the partnership.
Defence Relations
- Enhanced defense relations symbolize deep mutual trust.
- The Indian Navy's participation in a naval exercise in the Philippines.
- The Philippines president hailed India's indigenous defense capabilities, particularly the BrahMos missile project.
- Strengthening naval and coast guard interoperability through various collaborative activities.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
- Trade between India and the Philippines has surpassed $3 billion.
- Priority to review the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement and work towards a bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement.
- Active involvement of Indian companies in technology, health, automobiles, infrastructure, and mineral sectors.
Joint Research and Development
- Joint research in science and technology, covering fields from virology to artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing.
Agreements and Future Plans
- Key agreements include mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, transfer of sentenced persons, terms for the India-Philippines preferential trade agreement, and enhanced coast guard cooperation.
Additional Cooperation Areas
- Increase in Quick Impact Projects and development of sovereign data cloud infrastructure in the Philippines.