MANILA, Philippines – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has committed his full support to the development plans and projects of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration.
In a statement on Saturday, the Ministry of External Affairs of India confirmed that Modi had phoned Marcos Jr. to congratulate him for his victory in the 2022 presidential polls.
“The two leaders reviewed various areas of bilateral engagement, and expressed satisfaction at the rapid growth of cooperation between the two countries in recent years,” the statement read.
It also detailed that during their conversation, Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to continue strengthening its ties with the country as he zeroed in on the Philippines’ crucial role in their Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision.
READ: India’s Indo-Pacific Vision
“[The] Prime Minister also assured President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of India’s full support in his plans and projects for the Philippines’ development,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, Marcos Jr. similarly renewed his commitment to work towards improving India-Philippine relations.
“Nagagalak naman tayo na makausap sa telepono ang punong ministro na si Narendra Modi. Tiyak natin na mas iigting ang ating magandang relasyon sa bansang India,” he said in a Facebook post.
(We are glad to have spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the phone. We will make sure to further strengthen the country’s good relationship with India.)
The Indian government has previously vowed to help the Philippines fortify its military capabilities.
READ: India vows to work with PH to strengthen armed forces
Last January, the Philippines procured $374 million worth of supersonic cruise missiles from India to bolster the equipment of the Philippine Navy.
Similar to the Philippines, India also has its own territorial dispute with Asian giant China.
READ: Indian and Chinese troops in new border brawl