New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the deep-rooted connection between India and the Philippines stating that the two nations are "friends by choice and partners by destiny."

Addressing the joint press meeting here PM Modi stated, "From the Indian Ocean to the Pacific, we are united by shared values. Ours is not just a friendship of the past; it is a promise to the future."

Higlighting the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, PM Modi stated that "our diplomatic relations might be new, but the connection between our cultures is very ancient. The Philippines' Ramayana - Maharadia Lawana are living proof of our centuries-old cultural ties."

India and the Philippines have reaffirmed t...