• Macron and Randrianirina launch renewed two-year partnership framework

• Cooperation to focus on governance, economic reform and security

• Talks follow tensions linked to Madagascar’s recent political crisis

France and Madagascar on Feb. 24 opened a new phase in their bilateral relationship, following talks at the Élysée Palace between President Emmanuel Macron and President Michaël Randrianirina.

The renewed partnership rests on three pillars: stronger political and institutional dialogue, support for economic and social development, and continued cooperation in security and defense, with both sides emphasizing respect for sovereignty.

In a joint statement, the two leaders said they were committed to a rebalanced partnership focused on concrete results for their populations, at a time of mounting global challenges.

The framework will guide relations over the next 24 months, a timeline set by Antananarivo as part of its national “Refoundation” process.

According to the French presidency, Mr. Macron welcomed what he described as early progress in that process and the Malagasy authorities’ stated commitment to restoring trust in public institutions, placing the state at the service of the public interest and responding to the expectations of citizens, particularly young people.

Economic discussions centered on improving the business climate, reviving private investment and supporting priority sectors identified by Madagascar, including energy, infrastructure, digital transformation and services. Youth employment was also addressed.

The meeting comes after a period of tension between Paris and Antananarivo, notably following the extraction of former President Andry Rajoelina during a wave of public unrest.

Relations between France and Madagascar span political, economic, cultural and military cooperation. In 2024, bilateral trade reached $1.2 billion, according to data from the International Trade Center.

Ingrid Haffiny