India and US Plan Joint Development Projects in the Philippines

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India and the United States are in discussions to initiate collaborative development ventures in the Philippines, with plans to identify specific sectors later this year, according to informed sources.

Both countries have previously collaborated on education, energy, agriculture, and health-related development initiatives in Africa and Southeast Asia. New Delhi and Washington have partnered on projects in countries such as Cambodia, Afghanistan, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Media reports suggest that this cooperation will now extend to the Pacific Islands.

The Philippines, a significant political and security ally of the US, has recently increased its defense procurement from India, including the BrahMos missile, amidst strained relations with China over maritime disputes. Manila has criticized China’s aggressive tactics and actions in the region.

In response to queries, a spokesperson from the US Embassy highlighted the collaboration under the India-U.S. Triangular Development Partnership, with USAID and India’s Ministry of External Affairs Development Partnership Administration II (MEA-DPA-II) leveraging their expertise for global development initiatives. The partnership has recently supported mental health and emergency care services in Fiji during disasters, with plans for new initiatives in the Indo-Pacific.

Energy projects could be a potential area for collaboration, as indicated by a 2022 research report supported by USAID, emphasizing the need for increased stakeholder consultations and dialogue under the MoU signed between India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and the Philippines.

India has been actively involved in triangular development efforts with various countries and is exploring partnerships with Japan and Bangladesh to establish a new regional supply chain. Additionally, India has undertaken projects in Ghana, Cameroon, Malawi, Peru, Ethiopia, and Madagascar, with ongoing evaluations for further collaborations.

Furthermore, India is considering a proposal with the UK under the Global Innovation Partnership to leverage innovation for development in strategic third countries, with target countries expected to be finalized soon. Progress is also expected between France and India through a triangular development fund for Indo-Pacific countries.