New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced that India will be offering free e-visas to Filipino tourists, in a reciprocal move following the Philippines' decision to grant visa-free entry to Indian nationals.

The announcement came during a Joint Press Statement by PM Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr, who is currently on a five-day state visit to the country.

During the event, both leaders agreed to enhance people-to-people ties and connectivity further.

"We welcome the decision of the Philippines to grant visa-free entry to Indian tourists. India, in turn, has decided to extend the facility of free e-visas to tourists from the Philippines. Efforts will also be made to launch direct flights...