French President Emmanuel Macron commenced a two-day visit to Madagascar, an island in the Indian Ocean, on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of exploring new markets and enhancing economic collaboration in the region.
This marks the first state visit by a French president to the former colony since Jacques Chirac’s visit in 2005.
During his stay, Macron engaged with Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina in Antananarivo, where they formalized several agreements and memoranda in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and education.
The discussions also addressed historical disputes, including Madagascar’s claims over certain small islands that are currently French territory and its request for the return of the remains of a local king executed by French colonial forces in the late 19th century.
Additionally, Macron announced financial support from the French Development Agency and a loan for the long-planned construction of a hydroelectric dam in Volobe, eastern Madagascar.
On Thursday, he is set to participate in a summit of the Indian Ocean Commission, which includes Madagascar, Mauritius, Comoros, Seychelles, and the French territory of Reunion, with observer status granted to China, India, and the European Union.
Regarding ongoing disputes, Rajoelina mentioned that further discussions are scheduled for June 30 concerning the Scattered Islands, five small islands claimed by Madagascar but classified as French overseas territories.
