WAR.WIRE
Philippines, India planning defense accord
 MANILA (AFP) Sep 22, 2004
 India and the Philippines are planning to sign a memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation early next year, the Philippine Defense Department said Wednesday.

Indian ambassador Navrekha Sharma has invited Philippine Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz to sign the memorandum during a visit to India in early 2005, the department said in a statement.

The accord would cover exchanges of information and technology and possible joint training between the two sides' armed forces, the department said, adding it would be the 13th such bilateral agreement sealed by Manila.