External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a series of high-level diplomatic meetings on the sidelines of the ASEAN-related gatherings in Manila, engaging with counterparts from Oman, the Netherlands, and international organizations while reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening regional and global partnerships.
During his meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Jaishankar reviewed recent developments in the Gulf region. The discussions came against the backdrop of renewed tensions in West Asia following military exchanges involving the United States and Iran. After the meeting, Jaishankar shared on X that both leaders exchanged views on the evolving regional situation and agreed to remain in close contact as events continue to unfold.
The Indian foreign minister also met Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen to review progress following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the Netherlands. Jaishankar noted that the elevation of India-Netherlands relations to a Strategic Partnership has created fresh opportunities for collaboration in several high-growth sectors. The two sides discussed expanding cooperation in semiconductors, water management, green hydrogen, healthcare, and cultural exchanges, reflecting the growing depth of bilateral ties.
In another engagement, Jaishankar met Christian Saunders, the acting Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Their discussions focused on India’s humanitarian contributions and the commitments announced during the recent Donors Conference, particularly in the areas of healthcare and capacity-building initiatives for Palestinian refugees.
Jaishankar is visiting the Philippines to participate in Foreign Ministers’ meetings organized under the ASEAN framework. As part of his official engagements, he attended the 21st East Asia Summit and later called on Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
During the meeting with President Marcos, Jaishankar conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings and reiterated India’s support for the Philippines as it chairs ASEAN. He emphasized that cooperation between India and the Philippines continues to expand under their Strategic Partnership, with both countries implementing the India-Philippines Plan of Action 2025–2029.
The discussions in Manila highlighted India’s active diplomatic outreach across multiple regions, with a focus on strengthening strategic partnerships, addressing regional security challenges, and enhancing cooperation in emerging sectors. Through these engagements, New Delhi continues to reinforce its role as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific while advancing collaboration with nations across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
