India and the Philippines will review their defence and strategic partnership on Wednesday, aiming to strengthen military ties amid shared concerns over China’s aggressive posture over the South China Sea.
The fifth Joint Defense Cooperation Committee meeting in Manila is expected to discuss defense issues and regional security between the two countries.
Defence relations between the two countries have improved significantly in recent years.
India delivered its first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines in April, reflecting growing military ties between the two countries.
The delivery follows a $375 million contract signed more than two years ago to supply these missile systems.
The Indian delegation will be led by Defense Secretary Giridhar Aramanese while the Philippine delegation will be led by Senior Undersecretary Irineo Cruz Espino.
The meeting comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries following a violent clash between maritime security personnel from the two countries in the South China Sea about two and a half months ago.
“During the visit, the Defence Secretaries will discuss ways to further strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries,” an official statement said.
Officials said the situation in the South China Sea would be addressed at the meeting.
China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea, a huge source of hydrocarbons, have raised global concerns.
Several countries in the region, including Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei, have filed counterclaims.
India and many other democracies have strongly advocated for peaceful resolution of disputes and adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
“(Aramane’s) visit is significant as India and the Philippines celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of India’s Act East policy,” the defence ministry said in a statement.
“The two countries have a vibrant and multifaceted relationship, which extends into several strategic areas, including defence and security,” the statement said.
“The two countries are committed to supporting each other in achieving the goal of self-reliance in defence production,” the statement said.
(With inputs from PTI)
