Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said his state visit to India aims to strengthen maritime cooperation between Manila and New Delhi, anchored on both countries’ shared democratic values and commitment to international maritime law.
Marcos departed for New Delhi on Monday for a five-day official visit from August 4 to 8, upon the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.“Our geostrategic position as coastal states that border the busiest international trade routes and critical sea lines of communication in the Indo-Pacific region… serve as a credible foundation of our active and growing maritime cooperation,” Marcos said in his pre-departure speech at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.He emphasized that both the Philippines and India are steadfast in their adherence to the rule of law.“Our shared interest in protecting the rights and welfare of our international seafarers, our steadfastness in upholding international maritime law, including the UNCLOS, and our unwavering commitment to regional peace and cooperation,” he said, “serve as a credible foundation” for deeper collaboration.Marcos also highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two Asian democracies, citing centuries-old cultural exchanges and common values. “This visit to India will cap the year-long commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations,” he added.The visit comes as Indian Navy warships began patrolling the West Philippine Sea alongside Philippine vessels for the first time, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The two-day joint sail, which started Sunday, involves three Indian naval ships and coincides with Marcos’ trip to New Delhi.India’s naval presence in the region adds to a growing list of partners supporting the Philippines’ efforts to assert its maritime rights amid continued tensions with China. The Philippine military said the activity currently includes replenishment-at-sea operations.
