PH, India seek to expand maritime cooperation; eye deals on law, science, tech
Metro Manila, Philippines- The Philippines and India are looking to deepen maritime cooperation and finalize several bilateral agreements in the fields of law, science, technology, and culture as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. embarks on a state visit to India from August 4 to 8.
The visit comes at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is part of the year-long celebration marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In a pre-departure press briefing held in Malacañang on Thursday, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Evangeline Jimenez Ducrocq outlined the goals of the visit, noting that both nations aim to strengthen ties not only in economic and technological areas but also in regional maritime cooperation.
“Part of our ongoing relationship with India is in maritime cooperation activities, and we look forward to deepening these relationships and expanding areas of cooperation,” Ducrocq said.
While no formal maritime agreements are expected to be signed during the trip, officials from both sides are expected to explore ways to enhance coordination, particularly in the context of freedom of navigation, maritime security, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The Philippines and India have already engaged in joint maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea, and the Philippines has acquired the BrahMos supersonic missile system from India — a deal that has strengthened defense ties between the two democracies.
The DFA confirmed that at least six bilateral agreements are set to be signed during the visit, covering cooperation in law, science and technology, and cultural exchanges. More deals could be added as preparations continue.
“These agreements are wide-ranging, and negotiations are still ongoing. They reflect our mutual desire to broaden collaboration in key sectors that support innovation and people-to-people engagement,” Ducrocq said.
Marcos is scheduled to meet Indian President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Modi, and other senior officials in New Delhi. He will also hold business forums in New Delhi and Bangalore, India’s tech hub.
