India and Philippines Elevate Ties with Nine Strategic MoUs.
MOUs and Agreement
In August 2025, during a state visit by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to New Delhi, India and the Philippines formalized their elevated diplomatic relations by signing nine Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements, witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mark the official upgrade of bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, strengthening cooperation across diverse sectors.
- Among the agreements exchanged was a Declaration on the Establishment of Strategic Partnership and a Plan of Action (2025–2029) to guide the enhanced India–Philippines cooperation, laying out a structured roadmap for future engagement.
- Defence and security received a major boost through Terms of Reference signed for Air Staff Talks (Air Forces), Army Staff Talks, and Navy Staff Talks, deepening high-level military consultations.
- Justice and legal collaboration were strengthened through a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in Criminal Matters and a Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, enhancing judicial linkages between the two nations.
Main Point :- (i) The two countries also entered into cooperation across emergent and high-tech domains, such as Science & Technology, Digital Technologies, Tourism, and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, including a Statement of Intent between ISRO and Philippine Space Agency.
(ii) Cultural diplomacy and maritime collaboration received greater emphasis through MoUs on maritime cooperation between coast guards and a Cultural Exchange Programme, along with enhanced tourism ties.
Currency: Philippine peso
President: Bongbong Marcos
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