Diplomacy – Jaishankar Holds Key Bilateral Talks Ahead of Quad Meeting in Manila
Diplomacy – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar strengthened India’s diplomatic engagement in Manila through a series of high-level meetings with regional counterparts before participating in important ASEAN and Quad discussions.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong and Philippines Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro in Manila on Wednesday, using the opportunity to reinforce bilateral partnerships and exchange views on regional developments. The meetings took place ahead of the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, where leaders from India, Australia, Japan and the United States are scheduled to discuss strategic cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.
Bilateral engagement with Australia
Following his discussion with Senator Penny Wong, Jaishankar said the two ministers reviewed the progress made after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Australia. He also expressed confidence about continuing their dialogue during the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting later in the day.
The interaction reflected the growing momentum in India-Australia relations, with both countries continuing to expand cooperation in areas such as strategic affairs, trade, technology and regional security. Their discussions also highlighted the importance of maintaining close coordination through multilateral platforms.
India and Philippines review strategic partnership
Jaishankar also held extensive talks with Philippines Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, focusing on broadening the India-Philippines Strategic Partnership across several sectors.
According to the External Affairs Minister, both sides discussed opportunities to enhance collaboration in trade and investment, education, defence and security, maritime cooperation, development initiatives and capacity building. They also exchanged views on recent developments across the Indo-Pacific, underlining the shared interest in maintaining regional peace and stability.
The meeting reflected the expanding relationship between New Delhi and Manila as both countries continue to strengthen diplomatic and strategic cooperation.
Participation in ASEAN and Quad meetings
Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to the Philippine capital to attend a series of Foreign Ministers’ meetings under the ASEAN framework. His schedule includes the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and the ASEAN Regional Forum.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit also includes participation in the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN engagements. Besides the formal sessions, Jaishankar is expected to hold several bilateral meetings with foreign ministers from participating countries to advance India’s diplomatic priorities.
Focus on ASEAN-India cooperation
Earlier during the visit, Jaishankar co-chaired the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with India alongside Foreign Secretary Lazaro. During the conference, he acknowledged the Philippines’ contribution as the country coordinator for strengthening the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
He welcomed the theme chosen for the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” describing it as a reflection of the region’s shared commitment to trust, cooperation and sustainable development.
Jaishankar also drew attention to several global challenges affecting countries across the world, including disruptions in supply chains, energy security, food availability, public health and maritime safety. He said stronger international cooperation would be essential to improve resilience and reduce vulnerabilities in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
Maritime cooperation remains a priority
The External Affairs Minister highlighted that 2026 has been designated as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, describing it as an opportunity for both sides to deepen collaboration in ensuring a secure and stable maritime domain.
The Ministry of External Affairs said Jaishankar’s visit demonstrates India’s continued commitment to its Act East Policy and its efforts to further strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Philippines will assume the ASEAN Chairship in 2026 with priorities that include regional security, economic integration, digital transformation, inclusive growth and greater empowerment of people across the region.