News Insights · August 6, 2025 · 2 minutes read
In a landmark development, India and the Philippines have elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership. This announcement came during the state visit of Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos to India, where he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bilateral talks in New Delhi.
Strategic Partnership and MoUs
During the discussions, both leaders adopted a Plan of Action for 2025–2029 to steer collaboration under the new strategic framework. As part of the expanded ties, 14 MoUs were signed across various sectors. These include:
- Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters
- Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons
- Terms of Reference for Negotiations on the India–Philippines Preferential Trade Agreement
- Terms for Service and Staff Talks involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force
- Enhanced Cooperation between Coast Guards
Connectivity and Tourism Boost
India announced a gratis e-tourist visa for Filipino nationals, while the Philippines has allowed visa-free entry for Indian tourists for up to 14 days. Direct flight connectivity between the two nations is expected to be operational in the coming months.
Trade and Agriculture Collaboration
Bilateral trade between India and the Philippines has surpassed $3 billion, with India emerging as a major exporter of pharmaceutical products to the Philippines. The leaders acknowledged progress in agriculture cooperation, especially in rice research.
Digital Infrastructure and Maritime Information Cooperation
India also announced support for the development of Philippines’ Sovereign Data Cloud through a pilot infrastructure project. The Philippines has also been invited to join India’s Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region, promoting greater maritime situational awareness.
Commitment to Freedom of Navigation
India reaffirmed its commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, supporting freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982.
This visit is particularly significant as it marks the 75th anniversary of India–Philippines diplomatic relations, highlighting the commitment of both countries to deepen strategic, economic, and cultural engagement.
Source: PIB
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