India, Philippines Forge Strategic Partnership to Counter China’s Influence
India and the Philippines have significantly upgraded their bilateral relationship, elevating it to a strategic partnership. This move, announced on August 5, 2025, is largely driven by shared anxieties regarding China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea.
Several key agreements were signed during the high-level talks. These encompass enhanced defence cooperation, collaborative space exploration initiatives, and other areas of mutual interest.
Further solidifying the strengthened ties, both nations also announced the commencement of direct flights and reciprocal visa-free travel arrangements. This is expected to boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people contact.
The strategic partnership marks a significant geopolitical shift in the Indo-Pacific region. This enhanced cooperation will not only benefit both countries but also contribute to a more stable and balanced regional security architecture, countering the growing influence of China in the South China Sea. The implications for regional stability and the balance of power are far-reaching.
