India-Philippines to strengthen defense and maritime cooperation

New Delhi: – India and Philippines have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the Defence and marine sectors. Both the countries will be focussing on the supply of defence equipment and military training. The Philippines has adopted an aggressive stand regarding the Chinese claims about the South China Sea. Only a few days ago, Philippines announced building an ‘Armed Militia’ to retaliate against China, in the same language. At the same time, the Philippines has increased movements to purchase BrahMos missiles from India. Against this background, the defence cooperation between India and the Philippines becomes significant.

A virtual meeting of the joint commission of India and Philippines was held, on Friday. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar led the Indian delegation and Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin led the Philippines delegation. At this time, discussions were held on defence and marine cooperation. Exchange of information regarding counter-terrorism activities also was agreed upon, during the meeting. As per reports, discussions regarding trade, investment, education and space sectors were also held during the meeting. Foreign Minister Jaishankar said that this cooperation with the Philippines is vital for the Indian policies, regarding Indo-Pacific and ASEAN sectors.

Meanwhile, Philippines has expressed interest in purchasing the BrahMos missile, developed jointly by India and Russia. Talks are that soon an agreement for BrahMos will be signed between India and the Philippines. The strengthening cooperation between India and Philippines, at a time, when tension is reigning on the Line of Actual Control, in Ladakh, between India and China and the increased Chinese bullying in the South China Sea, becomes noteworthy. The analysts are pointing to the fact that even during the Coronavirus crisis, two virtual meetings were held between India and Philippines regarding cooperation in trade, investments and other sectors.