India and Philippines Agree to Deepen Defence, Trade, Space and Fintech Cooperation at BRICS Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in New Delhi on September 13 on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit, with the two leaders agreeing to further expand the India–Philippines Strategic Partnership across defence, trade, technology, infrastructure and people-to-people cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi welcomed the Philippines’ participation in the BRICS Summit in its capacity as the current chair of ASEAN. The meeting provided both leaders with an opportunity to review the progress made in bilateral relations since India and the Philippines formally elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership during President Marcos’ State Visit to India in August 2025.

Defence and Security Cooperation to Expand

The two leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made across the bilateral relationship and agreed to deepen cooperation in defence and security. Defence ties have increasingly become an important pillar of India–Philippines relations, alongside wider engagement in the Indo-Pacific and maritime security.

The latest discussions indicate that both sides intend to build further on the institutional framework created under the Strategic Partnership and expand practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Trade, Investment and Infrastructure in Focus

Prime Minister Modi and President Marcos also agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment, with both countries seeking to broaden the economic component of their partnership.

Railway infrastructure was specifically identified as an area for expanded cooperation. India’s growing expertise in railway modernisation, construction and digital transport systems creates opportunities for Indian companies and institutions to participate in infrastructure development in the Philippines.

Space, Fintech and Technology Cooperation

Space cooperation emerged as another important area for further engagement. India and the Philippines agreed to expand collaboration in space, science and technology, innovation and related emerging sectors.

Fintech cooperation was also discussed, reflecting India’s growing effort to expand international partnerships involving digital public infrastructure, electronic payments and financial technology platforms.

The two leaders additionally identified education, tourism and people-to-people exchanges as areas where bilateral ties can be strengthened further.

Philippines to Join Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure Coalition

Prime Minister Modi welcomed the Philippines’ decision to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, or CDRI. The India-backed international initiative promotes the development of infrastructure capable of withstanding natural disasters and climate-related risks.

The Philippines, which is highly exposed to typhoons, earthquakes and other natural hazards, could benefit from greater cooperation in resilient infrastructure planning, disaster preparedness and the exchange of technical expertise through the coalition.

Strategic Partnership Continues to Broaden

Prime Minister Modi and President Marcos also exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to expanding cooperation across the full spectrum of the Strategic Partnership.

The meeting reflects the steady broadening of India–Philippines relations beyond their traditional diplomatic and commercial foundations. Defence and maritime security remain important components, but the partnership is increasingly extending into infrastructure, space, digital finance, innovation, education and disaster resilience.

The expansion of cooperation also comes as India strengthens its engagement with Southeast Asian countries through its Act East Policy, while the Philippines seeks wider strategic, economic and technological partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

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