New Delhi, Aug 5 (UNI) Philippines President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. today said the term “Indo-Pacific” reflects a correct evolution of the previously used “Asia-Pacific”, considering the changing dynamics of global economy and geopolitical landscape.
Speaking to reporters at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan after ceremonial reception President Marcos said “I think it is a reaffirmation of the alliance and the partnership that we are strengthening. What used to be, what where we used to refer to the Asia Pacific region, we now refer to as the Indo-Pacific region, which is I think, a correct evolution of that understanding because of the global nature of all of politics and of all of trade and all of the economy.”
“…to build upon what we already have had but to certainly explore the many opportunities that have arisen in the past few years because of new technologies and the changing state of global economy and geopolitics around us now.”
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X “PM Narendra Modi warmly welcomed the Philippines’ President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr at Hyderabad House. India and the Philippines share close bonds based on the foundation of our civilizational, historical and people-to-people connections. Comprehensive discussions aimed at further cementing our enduring friendship and strong bilateral relations lie ahead.”
President Marcos Jr who arrived here yesterday on a five-day State visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, was accorded a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He later held wide-ranging talks with Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House.
He also paid floral tributes at Rajghat, reflecting the shared commitment of both nations to the ideals of peace, truth, and non-violence.
This is President Marcos Jr.’s first official visit to India since assuming office in 2022. His visit carries added significance as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and the Philippines.
Diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines were established in November 1949. Over the decades, the two countries have developed a robust partnership spanning trade and investment, Defence and maritime cooperation, healthcare, agriculture, digital technologies and education.
India’s ties with the Philippines form a key pillar of its Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific strategy.
