Madagascar is preparing to welcome French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday, April 23, for a two-day state visit aimed at bolstering the relationship between the two countries. The visit is a significant step in enhancing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, reflecting Madagascar’s interest in strengthening its partnership with France. This visit also comes at a crucial time, as Madagascar plays a central role in regional initiatives in the Indian Ocean.
Macron’s visit follows his participation in the Indian Ocean Commission (COI) Summit on April 24, which will take place on the island of Nosy Be, located in the northern part of Madagascar. The summit will gather leaders from island nations such as Comoros, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar, with key discussions set to address regional development, food security, climate resilience, sustainable growth, and security challenges.
During this visit, Macron and Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina are expected to hold high-level bilateral talks. The discussions are likely to focus on strengthening areas of mutual interest, with agreements anticipated in critical sectors like energy, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. These agreements will be aimed at supporting Madagascar’s long-term development goals while fostering deeper collaboration with France.
President Macron’s trip marks his second visit to Madagascar since taking office, underscoring France’s ongoing commitment to reinforcing its partnerships in the Indian Ocean region. This visit is expected to further elevate Madagascar’s international profile, highlighting the country’s importance as a key player in the region’s growth and stability.
As part of the visit, Macron will tour the Soarano train station in the capital, Antananarivo, and meet with both French and Malagasy business leaders to discuss economic opportunities. These talks will center around expanding trade, investment, and technological exchanges between the two countries, with an emphasis on renewable energy, infrastructure development, and transportation.
Following his engagement in Madagascar, President Macron will travel to Mauritius, marking the first visit by a French president to the island. This broader regional tour demonstrates France’s renewed emphasis on strengthening ties with its overseas territories and neighboring countries in the Indian Ocean, ensuring that the region remains a focal point in France’s foreign policy strategy.
Through these diplomatic efforts, Madagascar and France aim to forge a path toward shared growth, enhanced security, and deeper collaboration on regional and global issues.