China in tension as President of BrahMos-buying country to visit India for…, aims to boost defence ties with…
New Delhi: Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr is expected to visit India from August 4 to 8. The visit is significant as this would mark Marcos’s first visit to India since taking the oath as the Philippines’ President. The visit can prove to be crucial in expanding defence deals between both countries. The Ministry of External Affairs informed that President Marcos will be accompanied by First Lady Madame Louise Araneta Marcos. A high-level delegation, including cabinet ministers, other dignitaries, and business representatives, will also accompany the Philippines President during his crucial meetings with Indian leaders.
Talks On Brahmos Missile
It is expected that talks can be held regarding the purchase of BrahMos missile and further expanding bilateral and defence relations between India and the Philippines. It is noteworthy that Philippines is the first foreign buyer of India’s BrahMos missiles. India handed over to the Philippines the first consignment of BrahMos in April last year.
Indian Ships Stop At The Port Of Philippines
Indian naval vessels have consistently visited ports in the Philippines and have conducted ship repairs for Vietnam. Additionally, the Indian Navy and the Philippine Navy are collaborating on hydrographic initiatives. India has maintained a strong position regarding the principles of maritime freedom and territorial sovereignty in the South China Sea area.
Philippines Wants Stronger Cooperation With India
In 2024, Marcos Jr, while addressing a gathering at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, stated that the Philippines is ready to cooperate more strongly with India. He stated his country is keen to attract more and more Indian tourists, and for that, it has introduced a free travel visa.
Direct flights are also expected to start again in the last quarter of the year. With this, bilateral trade between the two countries has steadily increased to reach USD3.5 billion in 2023-24.
News