India and the Philippines have conducted their first joint naval drill in the disputed South China Sea, a move that has antagonized China. The two-day exercise began on Sunday and went smoothly, with Philippine forces expressing hopes for future joint maneuvers with Indian troops.
The drills were held amid tense relations between China and the two countries over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Two Chinese navy ships were spotted near Philippine naval frigates participating in the drill, but no untoward incidents were reported.
The exercise was part of the Philippines’ efforts to promote freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as strengthen deterrence against China. The country has allowed journalists to join patrols to witness China’s aggressive actions, which have provoked angry Chinese reactions.
Indian military officials, including General Romeo Brawner, expressed hopes for future cooperation with the Philippines. The two countries are strengthening their defense ties, with a recent port call by an Indian navy tanker in Manila sending a strong signal of solidarity and cooperation.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos is currently on a five-day state visit to India, where he will discuss defense, trade, and investment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit aims to boost relations between the two countries.
China has long-standing territorial disputes with both India and the Philippines in the South China Sea, which have led to tensions with other claimant states, including Vietnam and Malaysia. Beijing’s expansive claims to the region have sparked confrontations with neighboring countries, particularly the Philippines and Taiwan.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/india-philippines-south-china-sea-joint-sail-eecfaa6056d71937716fb4dc22f52b8a