Indian Prime Minister Modi: India and the Philippines have elevated their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the governments of India and the Philippines have agreed to elevate bilateral cooperation to a strategic partnership.
Modi said during a joint press conference with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, who was visiting India: "Myself and the President of the Philippines had in-depth discussions on mutual cooperation, regional issues, and international situations. Today, we decided to elevate the relationship between our two countries to a strategic partnership, which is reassuring."
Modi said that both countries have developed a comprehensive action plan.
He added: "Our bilateral trade has been steadily growing and has exceeded the $3 billion mark. To further consolidate this situation, we first need to complete the review of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. We have also decided to work towards concluding a bilateral preferential trade agreement."
India's Prime Minister also pointed out that the strengthening defense relationship with the Philippines is a symbol of deepening mutual trust between the two countries.
Modi said: "It is natural and necessary for two maritime powers to engage in maritime cooperation. Today, during the visit of the Philippine President to India, three Indian Navy ships participated in naval exercises in the Philippines for the first time. An Indian hydrographic survey ship also joined the exercises."
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