Jaishankar in US, holds talks with Philippines Foreign Secretary on UNGA sidelines

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Philippines Foreign Secretary Theresa P Lazaro on the sidelines of the 80^th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

The two leaders recalled Philippine President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr’s visit to India in August and underlined the growing partnership between New Delhi and Manila.

“We also discussed our cooperation in the UN and the Indo-Pacific region,” Jaishankar posted on X.

Lazaro, echoing similar sentiments, said their discussion reaffirmed the two countries’ commitment as Strategic Partners “to actively develop cooperation in political, defence and security, the maritime domain, etc.”

The meeting highlighted the strengthening of India–Philippines ties, particularly in areas of security and maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

India and the Philippines established diplomatic relations in November 1949, and have since expanded their partnership across diverse areas, including trade, defence, maritime security, agriculture, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and digital technologies. Both nations also collaborate closely within ASEAN frameworks, with India’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reinforcing regional engagement.

This year’s UNGA session takes place against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions and humanitarian crises worldwide. Global security issues dominate the agenda, amid continuing conflicts and sharpened rivalries among major powers.