NEW DELHI: Lauding ties between India and the Philippines, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the two nations are "friends by choice and partners by destiny." He emphasised that while the diplomatic ties might be new, the cultural bond between the two nations exists from the ancient times and termed the Philippines' Ramayana Maharadia Lawana as a "living proof" of the centuries-old cultural ties.
While making a joint press statement with the Philippines President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Tuesday following their bilateral discussions, PM Modi extended a warm welcome to the visiting leader and noted that the two nations are celebrating 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025.
"India and the Philippines are friends by choice and partners by destiny. From the Indian Ocean to the Pacific, we are united by shared values. Ours is not just a friendship of the past, it is a promise for the future, " said PM Modi.
PM Modi also expressed gratitude to the Philippines President and his government for strongly condemning the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives and injured several others. He welcomed Manila's decision to give a visa-free entry to Indian tourists.
"We express gratitude to the Philippines Government and the President for strongly condemning Pahalgam attack and standing with us in our fight against terrorism. The agreements signed today on mutual legal assistance and the transfer of sentenced persons will further strengthen our security partnership. We welcome Philippines decision to give visa-free entry to the Indian tourists. India has also decided to give free e-visa facility to tourists from the Philippines. This year, we will work to start direct flights between Delhi and Manila, " stated PM Modi.
Extending India's support to the Philippines for its chairmanship of ASEAN that is set to begin next year, PM Modi expressed India's commitment to peace, security, prosperity, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.
"The Philippines is an important partner in our Act East Policy and Mahasagar Vision. We are committed to peace, security, prosperity, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. India strongly supports freedom of navigation in accordance with international law, " he said.
Prime Minister Modi mentioned that the growing defence ties between India and Philippines are a "symbol of deep mutual trust." He announced India's decision to increase the number of Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in the Philippines.