P a c N e t 1 6 P A C I F I C F OR U M · H ON OLU LU , H I M a r c h 1 5, 20 24

BY SAURABH SINGH The bilateral relationship between the Philippines Saurabh Singh (iambivert07@gmail.com) is a and the US has improved since the finalization of the Doctoral Candidate at HNB Garhwal University and $374.96 million transaction with BrahMos former intern at MP-IDSA, New Delhi. [...] The statement acknowledges India has strengthened defense ties with Indonesia, the legitimacy of the 2016 arbitration ruling in favor sided with the Philippines in South China Sea of the Philippine’s sovereignty claims in the South sovereignty conflicts, and finalized an arms contract China Sea. [...] The US retains a strong military India’s strategic role in Southeast Asia is evolving presence in Southeast Asia and bilateral security from soft power credentials to becoming a reliable partnerships with Thailand and the Philippines, faces security and strategic ally. [...] India can strengthen its strategic partnership with India strengthen its strategic engagement in Southeast Asia through regional groupings, focusing on promoting by continuing to enhance defense cooperation, as stability in South Asia and addressing the South well as economic ties with Vietnam and Indonesia, China Sea issue, and promoting greater collaboration and contribute to maritime security i. [...] The US has increased its military presence in the Philippines, According to the Brookings Institution, China's sold arms to Taiwan, and accused China of using its influence in Southeast Asia is not predetermined but power to gain influence in the Indo-Pacific.