India Backs Philippines Against China’s Aggression, To Step Up Ties With Manila

At a joint conference with the Philippines foreign minister Enrique Manalo, India’s visiting External Affairs Minister Jaishankar didn’t explicitly mention China, but the message was lost on nobody.

The Philippines is locked in a maritime dispute with China in the South China Sea and tensions have flared up of late. At the crossroads, is how China has described its ties with the Philippines.

Over the weekend, the Philippines said one of its supply vessels was blocked and damaged by the Chinese coast guard who sprayed water cannons, injuring some Filipino soldiers.

China has called its action lawful, saying Philippines vessels intruded into its waters. The Philippines has summoned the Chinese envoy and lodged a strong protest.

This episode relates to a dispute over the Second Thomas Shoal, which is about 200 kilometres off the Philippines coast but nearly a thousand kilometres off China’s Hainan island. Yet, China claims it as its own.

During his meeting with foreign minister of the Philippines, Jaishankar held discussions on global issues, such as the Indo-Pacific, the West Asia crisis and the war in Ukraine. Besides, a wide range of subjects related to bilateral cooperation too was discussed.

Warm and productive meeting with @SecManalo of Philippines.

Wide ranging discussion on advancing ties in political, defense, security & maritime cooperation, trade & investment, infrastructure, development cooperation, education, digital, technology, culture and consular… pic.twitter.com/NLf557FFs3

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) March 26, 2024

India’s diplomatic ties with the Philippines go back 75 years. Defence and security relations includes diverse areas such as joint naval exercises, capacity building and training exchanges. Both countries have signed a $375 million deal for BrahMos cruise missiles.