President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos are formally welcomed by Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, India, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. — Photo from PPA Pool

MANILA — India and the Philippines on August 5 signed a series of agreements to strengthen their strategic partnership, as part of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s five-day official visit to India.

At a meeting in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Marcos agreed on a range of issues, including bolstering cooperation between their respective armed forces, including army, air force, and navy.

PM Modi underscored the importance of India’s relationship with the Philippines.

For his part, President Marcos described the talks as comprehensive, productive, and forward-looking, expressing satisfaction with the Philippines’ rapid defence modernisation efforts and the growing capabilities of India’s domestic defence industry as a key partner.

The two leaders also discussed setting the terms of reference for negotiations on a possible Preferential Trade Agreement between Manila and New Delhi.

President Marcos’ visit comes in the wake of the Philippines' purchase of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system from India, the first such export by New Delhi, under a contract worth US$375 million. Delivery of the system began in April this year. — VNA/VNS