Philippines’ Marcos Eyes India Trade, Defense in Talks With Modi

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is scheduled to visit India next week, where he will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss trade and defense cooperation between the two countries. The visit aims to strengthen the economic and strategic ties between the Philippines and India. Marcos is expected to explore opportunities to expand bilateral trade and investment, as well as explore potential collaborations in the defense sector. Both countries have expressed a desire to deepen their partnership, particularly in the areas of commerce, technology, and security. The discussions are likely to cover a range of issues, including regional geopolitics, climate change, and the post-pandemic economic recovery. The visit is seen as an important step in the Philippines' efforts to diversify its international relations and strengthen its position in the region. It also reflects India's growing diplomatic and economic engagement in Southeast Asia, a region of strategic importance.