“We firmly support Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty”: EAM Jaishankar in Manila

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, currently on an official visit to Manila, reaffirmed India’s strong support for the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty. He emphasized that India will continue to enhance cooperation with the Philippines, particularly in defense and security.

During a press conference with Philippines Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, Jaishankar stated, “We firmly support the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty.” He highlighted the importance of cooperation in defense, noting that both countries are important maritime nations with significant commitments to global shipping.

“We are both important maritime nations. We’re not only important maritime nations. I think as the secretary pointed out, we are at two ends in the manner of speaking of the Indo Pacific. Not exactly ends, but let’s say Philippines is in the middle. We are at one end,” Jaishankar said, underscoring the shared commitment to maritime security.

Secretary Manalo echoed this sentiment, stating, “India and the Philippines have a very deep interest in ensuring a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific Ocean.” He emphasized that both countries are engaging in discussions on defense and security cooperation to support an international rules-based order.

Regarding recent tensions in the South China Sea, the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs issued a statement expressing “strong protest against the aggressive actions” of China’s Coast Guard and maritime militias near the Second Thomas Shoal. The department instructed its mission in Beijing to lodge a formal complaint over the incident.

Jaishankar’s visit to Manila follows his official visit to Singapore and will be followed by a visit to Malaysia. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit aims to enhance bilateral relations and engage on regional issues of mutual concern.