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Philippines' Marcos calls for united front of ‘like-minded' nations to counter China threat
Philippines President Bongbong Marcos said that the formation of global coalition of like minded states with shared valued to counter China threat.
Talking to Firstpost Managing Editor Palki Sharma, Marcos Jr said that the formation of global coalition of like minded states with shared valued to counter China threat.
India and the Philippines on Tuesday decided to elevate their ties to a Strategic Partnership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr agreeing for expeditious conclusion of the negotiations of the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between India and the Philippines for further promotion of mutual trade.
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The two countries agreed to enhance defence cooperation, with President Marcos thanking PM Modi for cooperation in the area of defence industry and export of platforms, including the BrahMos.
The diplomatic relationship between the two countries was established in November 1949. Both countries are now celebrating the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
Economic and commercial engagement is an important aspect of the India-Philippines bilateral relationship. Bilateral trade between India and the Philippines reached 3.5 billion USD in 2023-24. There is a notable presence of Indian companies in the Philippines, in the areas of IT and ITES, health-care and pharmaceuticals, textiles, infrastructure, FMCG, chemicals, automobiles, agriculture, among others.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced that India will be offering free e-visas to Filipino tourists, in a reciprocal move following the Philippines' decision to grant visa-free entry to Indian nationals.
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