Support for Philippines’ sovereignty

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on March 26 that India firmly supports the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty, amid the Southeast Asian nation’s maritime dispute with China in the South China Sea.

Addressing a news conference in Manila, Mr. Jaishankar said he had a very good discussion with his counterpart, Enrique Manalo.

“I take this opportunity to firmly reiterate India’s support to the Philippines for upholding its national sovereignty,” Mr. Jaishankar said.

He said that as the world changes, it is essential that India and the Philippines cooperate more closely to shape the emerging model.

Every country has the right to uphold and enforce its national sovereignty, he said in response to a question.

“That is something that we have also discussed,” he added.

There has been very perceptible growth in bilateral ties between India and the Philippines recently, the Minister said.