The Philippines and India have officially elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership, marking a new era of enhanced cooperation across key sectors. The declaration was made during the State Visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to India from August 4 to 8, 2025.
During a joint press conference at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, President Marcos and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the signing and exchange of several landmark agreements. These new accords will significantly expand collaboration beyond traditional areas, with a focus on defense, security, trade, science and technology, and tourism.
President Marcos stated that the strengthened partnership is built on a shared vision for a “free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.”
The signed agreements highlight the commitment of both nations to foster a more integrated relationship. Key agreements include:
- Defense and Security:
- Declaration on the Establishment of Strategic Partnership
- Terms of Reference for military-to-military staff talks between the armies, navies, and air forces of both nations
- Enhanced maritime cooperation between the Philippine Coast Guard and the Indian Coast Guard
- Legal and Judicial:
- Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters
- Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons
- Science, Technology, and Digital Innovation:
- Programme of Cooperation in Science and Technology (2025-2028)
- Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Digital Technologies
- Statement of Intent on Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space between the Philippine Space Agency and the Indian Space Research Organisation
- Tourism and Culture:
- Tourism Cooperation Implementation Program (2025-2028)
- Cultural Exchange Programme
These agreements, along with a comprehensive Plan of Action for the Strategic Partnership (2025-2029), lay the groundwork for a more robust and dynamic relationship between the two countries in the years ahead.
