President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has arrived in New Delhi, India, to attend the two-day 18th BRICS Summit this weekend as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Marcos was invited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in the gathering of emerging and developing countries that cooperate on economic, trade and other global issues.
In his departure statement, Marcos said he would bring the voice of ASEAN to the summit and present the region’s perspectives on issues affecting member countries.
Alongside the summit, the president is scheduled to meet Modi to discuss progress in the strategic partnership between the Philippines and India.
Their agenda includes defense and maritime cooperation, trade and investment, health and pharmaceuticals, digital cooperation, tourism, direct air connectivity and people-to-people ties.
Marcos will also meet with Indian business leaders to encourage investments in the Philippines, particularly in infrastructure, digitalization, information technology, pharmaceuticals, transport and logistics.
The president is also expected to follow up on $5.8 billion in investment pledges from Indian companies announced in 2025.
The visit highlights the Philippines’ efforts to strengthen economic and strategic ties with India while advancing ASEAN interests in international discussions.
