India and Philippines boost trade and naval cooperation

Reuters

India and the Philippines are deepening trade and defense ties, with both countries set to fast-track a preferential trade agreement and boost maritime cooperation.

During a joint statement on 5 August, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos announced plans to accelerate negotiations on a bilateral preferential free trade agreement.

Marcos, currently on a state visit to India—the fifth by a Philippine president also highlighted growing maritime collaboration between the two nations.

On 4 August, their navies sailed together for the first time in the South China Sea.

Since late 2023, the Philippines has intensified maritime cooperation with several foreign navies, including those of the U.S., Japan, Australia, France, and Canada, as part of efforts to push back against China's sweeping territorial claims in the region.

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