BENGALURU, 8 AUG

Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, held a cordial meeting with the State Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot during his official visit to the City, as part of his tour of India. The meeting took place at the Raj Bhavan, where Governor Gehlot extended a warm welcome on behalf of the people of the State and expressed appreciation for the deepening ties between India and the Philippines.

The interaction was described as "cordial and meaningful" and highlighted the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen diplomatic and cultural relations. Attendees included Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, Chief Secretary to Government Shalini Rajneesh, and other dignitaries.

During his visit, which lasted from 4 to 8 August, President Marcos remarked on the Philippines and India’s shared objective to "strengthen the resilience" of the global community. He emphasised the significance of India's role as "Vishwa Bandhu" (World's friend), noting, "When Prime Minister Modi assures the world that India intends to be 'Vishwa Bandhu', the Filipino people feel his and the Indian people's sincerity."

Additionally, President Marcos expressed sympathy for the victims of the Uttarakhand flash floods, reaffirming the long-standing friendship between the two nations.