New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- India and Philippines on Tuesday decided to elevate their ties to a Strategic Partnership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr agreeing for expeditious conclusion of the negotiations of the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between India and the Philippines for further promotion of mutual trade.

The two countries agreed to enhance defence cooperation with President Marcos thanking PM Modi for cooperation in the area of defence industry and export of platforms including the BrahMos.

In a veiled reference to China, the two countries expressed concern for the situation in the South China Sea particularly with regard to coercive and aggressive actions that impact on regional peace and ...