After wide-ranging talks between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Philippines President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in New Delhi, the two sides signed seven pacts and two declarations to step up engagement in various fields.
The two sides issued a joint declaration for cooperation to combat international terrorism, which envisages information sharing, cooperation amongst law enforcement agencies, cooperation in capacity building and in the prevention and suppression of the financing of terrorist acts.
Describing terrorism as 'a profound threat to international peace and security,' the two countries opposed
the menace in all forms and manifestations and decided to launch 'concerted action to protect and defend peace and security everywhere.'
Under the joint declaration on a framework of bilateral cooperation, the two sides also agreed to set up a joint commission and encourage cooperation in sectors like defence, security, transnational crimes, health, pharmaceuticals, IT, renewable energy, natural gas and bio-fuels.
The commission, co-chaired by foreign ministers of the two countries, will meet on a bi-annual basis and is expected to strengthen and develop trade, economic, scientific and other fields of bilateral cooperation.
India also extended a $15 million line of credit to the Philippines for gems and jewelry cutting, polishing machinery and other equipment.
