French President Emmanuel Macron recently visited Madagascar, with a focus on boosting economic cooperation and finding new markets in the Indian Ocean region. This marked the first visit by a French leader since Jacques Chirac in 2005. During his visit, Macron addressed historical disputes between the two countries, including Madagascar’s claims over French territory and demands for the return of a local king’s remains killed by French colonial forces in the late 1800s. Macron and Madagascan President Andry Rajoelina signed agreements in energy, agriculture, and education during their meeting in the capital city of Antananarivo.
Furthermore, Macron announced funding from the French Development Agency and a loan from the French treasury for the construction of a hydroelectric dam in eastern Madagascar, planned for nearly a decade. The visit also involved discussions about the Indian Ocean Commission, a bloc consisting of countries like Mauritius, Comoros, Seychelles, and Réunion, a French territory. Macron emphasized the importance of expanding market access in the region, including East Africa and the Indian Ocean. The two leaders also addressed disagreements over the Scattered Islands, with discussions planned for the near future on potential resolutions.
One of the contentious issues discussed during Macron’s visit was the fate of the Scattered Islands, a group of small islands around Madagascar that are claimed by both countries. France supports a joint management system for the islands, while some in Madagascar have called for full control, especially after the UK’s decision to hand over control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius last year. Both Macron and Rajoelina expressed a commitment to finding a collaborative solution to this dispute. Additionally, Macron pledged to work with Madagascar on the return of three skulls that were taken from the country over a century ago and are currently displayed in a Paris museum, including the skull of King Toera of the Sakalava people.
The visit of President Macron to Madagascar highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen economic ties and address historical grievances between the two countries. Macron’s commitment to supporting infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a hydroelectric dam, demonstrates France’s investment in Madagascar’s development. The agreements signed during Macron’s visit in various sectors like energy, agriculture, and education indicate a mutual interest in enhancing cooperation and collaboration. The discussions around the Scattered Islands and the return of historical artifacts underscore the complexities of post-colonial relationships and the need for dialogue to resolve longstanding issues.
In the broader context of the Indian Ocean region, Macron’s visit aimed to expand France’s presence and influence, particularly within the Indian Ocean Commission. By engaging with countries in the region and advancing economic partnerships, France seeks to establish itself as a key player in the area. The commitment to finding solutions to disputes and working together on mutual interests reflects a diplomatic approach to fostering stronger ties with Madagascar and other Indian Ocean nations. Macron’s focus on market access and economic growth underscores the strategic importance of the region for France and its engagement with key stakeholders in the area.
Overall, Macron’s visit to Madagascar marks a significant step in Franco-Madagascan relations, emphasizing cooperation, economic development, and addressing historical grievances. The agreements signed and announced investments reflect a commitment to mutual progress and partnership between the two countries. By engaging with the Indian Ocean Commission and addressing regional issues, France aims to enhance its presence in the area and bolster its economic and strategic interests. The discussions and commitments made during Macron’s visit lay the foundation for continued collaboration and dialogue between France and Madagascar, with a focus on mutual prosperity and shared objectives in the Indian Ocean region.
