Pakistan, Aug. 5 -- The Indian Navy has joined the Philippine Navy in patrolling disputed areas of the South China Sea for the first time, Manila's military confirmed on Monday. The two-day mission began on Sunday and involves three Indian vessels working alongside their Philippine counterparts. This patrol marks a new chapter in regional naval cooperation.

The joint patrol started just before Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos left for a state visit to New Delhi, where he is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over the past year, the Philippines has increased defense partnerships with several allies amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. Both countries aim to strengthen maritime security through this collaboration.

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