Philippines Ambassador Josel Francisco Ignacio has highlighted the growing bilateral relationship between his country and India, emphasising the significant advancements across various domains, especially in defence and security.

Philippines Ambassador Josel Francisco Ignacio has highlighted the growing bilateral relationship between his country and India, emphasising the significant advancements across various domains, especially in defence and security. "Philippines' partnership with India has increasingly stood out. It is a relationship built on over a millennium of contacts, 75 years of diplomatic engagement," Ambassador Ignacio said at the country's Independence Day celebration that took place last week at the Philippines embassy in Delhi. India was represented by the new minister of state in the Ministry of External Affairs Pabitra Margherita at the celebration. He pointed out that the "past decade has seen an extraordinary blossoming, intensification, increasing prominence, and growing impact" in the ties with the flourishing partnership of defence and security cooperation. Ignacio emphasized the broad-based nature of this cooperation, encompassing "security and defense training, naval port calls, equipment and technology". Also read: Philippine President Marcos Jr vows robust collaboration with `friend` India Earlier this year, the Philippines started getting deliveries of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems from India as part of a $375 million deal signed in 2022. Indian Navy ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, INS Kiltan, and an Indian coast guard vessel visited the ASEAN country recently. Additionally, the Philippines has expressed interest in acquiring India's Advanced Light Helicopter. Also read: Exclusive: Encouraging feedback from the Philippines, interest from Africa and Latin America: BrahMos CEO Economic ties have also flourished, reaching record levels in recent years. Ignacio noted the significant role of Indian companies in "Philippine infrastructure, transport and ICT," sectors. He added that Philippine companies are increasingly targeting India's growing market which is contributing to bilateral trade expansion and economic interdependence. "At the heart of the relationship has always been the people-to-people exchanges," Ignacio expressed pride in the Filipino community in India and the growing number of Indians in the Philippines, contributing to a better understanding. Efforts are underway to enhance air connectivity between the 2 countries. He expressed optimism about the future trajectory of bilateral relations. "Our 75 years of diplomatic ties will see our country's opening a new pivot, improving the partnership with an even more strategic, mutually gainful," he anticipated.

Defence ties with India flourishing amid growing partnership: Philippines envoy Ignacio

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Defence ties with India flourishing amid growing partnership: Philippines envoy Ignacio