India and the Philippines have agreed to share best practices and collaborate in maritime capacity-building initiatives across various domains
Heralding a new chapter in their long and trusted bilateral relationship, India and the Philippines held the inaugural India-Philippines Maritime Dialogue in Manila on Friday.

The Dialogue coincided with the celebration of 75 years of diplomatic relations, underlining the enduring partnership between India and the Philippines.

The discussions highlighted mutual aspirations for regional stability, economic growth, and adherence to international maritime norms.

During the Dialogue, both sides exchanged perspectives on prevailing maritime challenges, particularly in the context of rising tensions in the South China Sea.

They emphasized adherence to a rules-based international order, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Both nations explored cooperation initiatives to strengthen maritime security and uphold the principles of international law.

Highlights

Maritime Industry and Ocean Economy: Enhancing trade and exploring sustainable economic opportunities in the maritime sector.

Marine Scientific Research: Joint research programs aimed at advancing marine knowledge.

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR):
Strengthening joint response mechanisms for natural disasters and emergencies.
Naval and Coast Guard Cooperation: Increasing operational engagement to ensure maritime security.

Maritime Law Enforcement: Sharing expertise to combat illegal fishing, piracy, and trafficking.

The Dialogue also aimed to foster collaboration at regional and international fora, reinforcing shared objectives of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Dialogue took place against the backdrop of increasing military assertiveness by China in the South China Sea.

China’s sweeping sovereignty claims over the resource-rich waters have raised global concerns, with nations like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Brunei contesting these claims.

India, along with other democratic nations, has consistently advocated for peaceful dispute resolution and respect for international law.

During the talks, the Philippines and India underscored the importance of safeguarding critical sea lanes to ensure free and open navigation.

“The discussions reinforced our shared commitment to fostering a conducive environment for mutual growth and global well-being,” stated the Ministry of External Affairs.

The Indian delegation was led by Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary, Disarmament and International Security Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, while Marshall Louis Alferez, Assistant Secretary, Maritime and Ocean Affairs Office, Department of Foreign Affairs, headed the Philippines delegation.

Defence and security ties

The defence and security ties between India and the Philippines have witnessed substantial growth in recent years.

Earlier this year, India delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines, a milestone reflecting robust bilateral defence cooperation.

The $375 million deal underscores the strategic depth of their partnership, which is poised to expand further in the coming years.

The maritime dialogue coincided with the year-long celebrations of 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines.

In November 2024, EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar and Ambassador of the Philippines to India, Josel F. Ignacio, unveiled a commemorative joint logo to mark this historic milestone.

The logo, featuring elements from both national flags, including the Ashok Chakra and the Sun, alongside the Peacock and the Eagle.

The anniversary also coincides with the completion of a decade of India’s Act East Policy, which aims to bolster ties with Southeast Asian nations.

Special events and activities are planned under the ASEAN framework to enhance collaboration in areas ranging from trade and technology to culture and tourism.

The inaugural dialogue concluded with an agreement to convene the next round in New Delhi in 2025.

Both nations expressed optimism about building on the outcomes of the discussions to further deepen their maritime partnership.

The Philippines’ Assistant Secretary Marshall Louis Alferez highlighted the significance of the dialogue, stating, “This engagement reaffirms our commitment to a shared vision of peace and prosperity in our maritime domains.”

As India and the Philippines look ahead, their cooperation in maritime security and beyond is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the Indo-Pacific’s geopolitical landscape.

The evolving partnership reflects their shared commitment to a free, open, and rules-based maritime order, providing a strong foundation for mutual growth and regional stability.