India, Philippines Forge Strategic Partnership

Rapid Summary

• India and the Philippines elevated their relations to a strategic partnership during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to New Delhi on August 5,2025.
• the decision was formalized after bilateral talks between Prime minister Narendra Modi and President Marcos Jr.
• A comprehensive action plan has been drafted to enhance cooperation under this partnership.
• Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the Philippines’ condemnation of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives and emphasized shared values between the two countries, including a commitment to combating terrorism.
• The leaders released a commemorative postage stamp marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines.
• Mr. Modi highlighted that the Philippines is instrumental in India’s Act East Policy and ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision for enhanced engagement in the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing peace, security, prosperity, and freedom of navigation per international law.

Indian Opinion Analysis
the establishment of a strategic partnership with the Philippines reflects india’s proactive engagement within its ‘act East Policy,’ aiming at fostering stronger ties with Southeast Asian nations amidst growing geopolitical challenges in Asia-Pacific waters. By focusing on defense cooperation and shared maritime values like freedom of navigation in adherence to international laws,this partnership underscores mutual dedication toward regional stability within an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific arena. Furthermore, it consolidates India’s credibility as a committed partner against global terrorism-highlighted by joint condemnation following tragic incidents such as Pahalgam-and positions both nations for deeper bilateral collaboration across economic, security-related sectors while fostering trust through symbolic gestures like commemorative stamps tied into broader historical connectivity aspects

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