India and the Philippines held the inaugural India-Philippines Maritime Dialogue in Manila on Friday ( 13 December 2024).
The Dialogue coincided with the celebration of 75 years of diplomatic relations, underlining the enduring partnership between India and the Philippines.
Highlights
Maritime Industry and Ocean Economy: Enhancing trade and exploring sustainable economic opportunities in the maritime sector.
Marine Scientific Research: Joint research programs aimed at advancing marine knowledge.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Strengthening joint response mechanisms for natural disasters and emergencies.
Naval and Coast Guard Cooperation: Increasing operational engagement to ensure maritime security.
Maritime Law Enforcement: Sharing expertise to combat illegal fishing, piracy, and trafficking.
The Dialogue also aimed to foster collaboration at regional and international fora, reinforcing shared objectives of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Dialogue took place against the backdrop of increasing military assertiveness by China in the South China Sea.