Marcos Jr. Boosts PH-India Ties, Represents ASEAN at BRICS Summit

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. returned to Manila on Monday morning after a two-day trip to New Delhi, India, where he represented the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the 18th BRICS Summit and advanced the Philippines’ strategic and economic ties with India. The aircraft carrying the Philippine delegation landed at Villamor Air Base. During his visit, the President met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, discussing enhanced bilateral trade, investment, and defense cooperation. Particular emphasis was placed on improving market access for Philippine agricultural exports like bananas and mangoes, and attracting Indian investment in the manufacturing sector. As ASEAN chair, Marcos Jr. also advocated for regional economic integration and sustainable development. His participation in the BRICS Summit provided the Philippines an opportunity to exert greater influence in global economic forums, not just as a single nation but as a representative of the ASEAN bloc. The President also stressed the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region and called for strengthened cooperation within multilateral frameworks. For the Philippine economy, strengthening ties with India holds the potential for expanded market access and increased investment across various sectors. Collaboration in the IT and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industries is also anticipated, potentially creating new employment opportunities beyond overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Furthermore, Marcos Jr.'s statements as ASEAN representative underscored the Philippines' commitment to regional security amidst discussions on the South China Sea. Information Source: Inquirer Business