Jaishankar highlights growth in India-Philippines ties and trade during the Manila visit.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is currently visiting the Philippines, on Tuesday met Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, who highlighted the growth in India’s ties with the country.
Jaishankar said meetings between leaders underline the growing closeness between the two nations in trade, investment, healthcare, food security, education, and more.
Noting that bilateral trade crossed $3 billion last year, he expressed confidence in further growth based on increased engagement.
During the meeting, EAM conveyed India’s preparedness to ramp up engagement with the Philippines as its economy grows at approximately 7% annually.
He welcomed Manalo’s remarks about easier visas, greater mobility, enhanced dialogues and deeper cooperation between the nations.
Some recent developments in the relationship were also positively recognized.
Jaishankar stated India is taking ahead quick impact projects in agriculture, health and capacity building with the Philippines.
Growing comfort and trust between the nations is evident in India’s ongoing rice supplies.
The minister also highlighted interest among Indian companies to step up investments in digital and physical infrastructure.
He will now call on President Ferdinand Marcos to convey greetings and good wishes from PM Modi and discuss expanding bilateral ties.
