In a historic address at Hyderabad House, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the Philippines–India Strategic Partnership, elevating the relationship between the two nations to new heights. President Marcos described the move as a “new epoch” in bilateral ties, highlighting its potential to deepen cooperation in defense, trade, maritime security, and cultural exchange.
During the announcement, President Marcos emphasized the significance of the partnership, noting that India is only the fifth country to achieve this status with the Philippines. This reflects a shared dedication to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
“Today, our relationship enters a new epoch as Prime Minister Modi and I formally launch the Strategic Partnership between the Philippines and India,” President Marcos stated. “For the Philippines, this is a momentous decision, as we take a very considered path to such elevated partnerships.”
The President pointed to the rapid growth of the 75-year-old relationship and the strong upward trajectory of both economies as key drivers for this new agreement. He also highlighted the growing alignment of both countries’ interests and views on global challenges.
The leaders witnessed the signing of several key agreements, including those for military-to-military staff talks between their respective armed forces and enhanced maritime cooperation between their coast guards. These agreements are expected to solidify the defense and security pillars of the new strategic partnership.
President Marcos is the fifth Philippine president to visit India, following in the footsteps of his father, Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., who made a historic visit in 1976. The President concluded his remarks by thanking Prime Minister Modi and quoting his father’s words from that visit: “As emissaries of our people, I bring with me the enduring friendship of the Filipino nation.”
