Philippines President Marcos Embarks on Five-Day India Visit to Strengthen Defense and Trade Relations

Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. embarked on a five-day official visit to India, beginning in New Delhi to bolster defense partnerships and trade relations. This trip marks his first since taking office in 2022 and coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations. President Marcos arrived at Air Force Station Palam accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and a distinguished delegation, including government officials and business leaders. The visit aims to deepen strategic cooperation, notably in maritime security, building on past defense agreements such as India's delivery of the BrahMos supersonic missile system to the Philippines in April 2024. During his stay, he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, with discussions focusing on enhancing bilateral defense and trade collaborations. The visit also includes a trip to Bengaluru before his departure on August 8. The Philippines is recognized as a vital partner in India's Act East Policy, with historical and cultural links evident in linguistic and archaeological evidence. Established in 1949, India-Philippi...