President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, today welcomed President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, at Rashtrapati Bhavan on his first State Visit to India. A ceremonial reception and bilateral meetings were followed by a State Banquet hosted in his honour.
Welcoming President Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, President Murmu said, “It gives me great pleasure to welcome the President of the Republic of the Philippines, His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the First Lady, and the distinguished delegation at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. We are especially happy that your visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of our diplomatic relations.”
President Murmu described India’s friendship with the Philippines as one grounded in civilizational links, historical ties, and shared cultural values. “Our friendship with the Philippines is based on historical, civilizational, and cultural linkages. We deeply value these longstanding ties.”
From Cooperation to Strategic Partnership
Marking a major development in the bilateral relationship, President Murmu highlighted that India and the Philippines have elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership.
“It is a matter of pride and satisfaction that as a result of today’s discussions between you and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our bilateral relations have been elevated to the level of a ‘Strategic Partnership.’ This will further strengthen our collaboration in key areas including trade and investment, defence and security, maritime cooperation, technology, space, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.”
She noted that bilateral trade is growing steadily, and Indian investments in several sectors in the Philippines are increasing.
Shared Vision for the Region
Highlighting the Philippines’ importance in India’s regional outreach, President Murmu said, “Our partnership is not only beneficial for our two peoples but is also an anchor for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. The Philippines is an important partner in India’s Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision, and our Indo-Pacific outlook.”
She extended warm wishes to the Philippines as it prepares to assume the ASEAN Chair next year, “We are happy that the Philippines will assume the ASEAN Chairmanship next year, and we extend our best wishes for a successful term.”
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Strong Condemnation of Terrorism
President Murmu also thanked the Philippine government for its condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. “We are grateful for your strong condemnation of the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam and for standing in solidarity with India in our fight against terrorism.”
Focus on Development, Technology, and Culture
Reaffirming India’s commitment to capacity-building and inclusive growth, the President said, “As members of the Global South, we face common challenges and share the goal of advancing the development of our peoples. We must focus on sectors that directly improve the daily lives of our citizens.”
She welcomed increasing cooperation in digital and financial technologies and reaffirmed India’s commitment to expanding development cooperation and Quick Impact Projects in the Philippines. “We welcome the growing bilateral cooperation in digital and financial technologies. India is committed to expanding development cooperation and capacity building with the Philippines.”
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Maritime and Cultural Links
The President stressed that both countries share strategic interests in the maritime domain: “We have common concerns and interests in the maritime sphere, particularly in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and search and rescue. We can learn from each other in these fields.”
Highlighting historical cultural connections, she remarked, “Our centuries-old cultural and commercial exchanges provide a strong foundation for our friendship. I have been informed that narratives based on the Ramayana are also popular in the Philippines. I hope our friends from the Philippines will enjoy a glimpse of this cultural richness during tonight’s banquet.”
She also expressed optimism about further easing visa regimes and improving air connectivity to encourage stronger people-to-people and business ties.“Once again, I extend a warm welcome to you and your delegation. I am confident that your State Visit will mark a new chapter in our multifaceted relations, bringing tangible benefits to our peoples.”
