NEW DELHI -  Overall relations between the Philippines and India have been revitalized and are seen attaining new highs and milestones.

Such was the shared assessment coming out of the courtesy call of Ambassador-designate Josel F. Ignacio on the Ministry of External Affairs’ newly assumed Secretary (East), Shri Jaideep Mazumdar on 20 March.

The meeting was a reunion for the two officials. Secretary Mazumdar was India’s Ambassador to the Philippines from 2017 to 2020, partly coinciding with Ambassador-designate Ignacio’s stint in Manila as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Affairs (2018-2021). A highlight of their collaboration was the 70^th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2019, culminating with then President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to the Philippines.

Amb. Ignacio, with Third Secretary Dizon, survey the rich bilateral agenda with Secretary Mazumdar

During the cordial meeting, both sides welcomed the substantial and notable uptick in bilateral engagement, including in the defense and security sphere via the Brahmos missile system deal. They expressed satisfaction at the frequency of high-level visits and dialogues, as attested by the Philippine visit of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on 25-27 March.

Ambassador-designate Ignacio and Secretary Mazumdar also surveyed the state of bilateral cooperation in commerce, agriculture, people-to-people ties, air connectivity, and newer areas such as Financial Technology and AI. They also discussed regional security developments of shared import.

The two officials resolved to bring their respective offices to bear on the advancement of the rich bilateral agenda. The 75^th anniversary of Philippine-Indian diplomatic relations this year is seen as presenting further impetus and opportunity to sustain the newfound vitality of cooperation.

The Filipino diplomat expressed optimism that Secretary Mazumdar’s credentials, coupled with his familiarity with the contour of bilateral relations will be instrumental in driving ties onto an ever higher track and along multiple vectors.

Also present at the call were Third Secretary and Vice Consul Mark Anthony P. Dizon and Attaché Rogelio Silva, and MEA-South Undersecretary Ms. Juhi Jalota. END