India-Madagascar Relations: India’s Commitment as a Reliable Development Partner

India’s historical maritime links with Madagascar date back centuries but their diplomatic relationship is marked by the establishment of the Indian Consulate General in 1954 and subsequent elevation to an Embassy in 1960. India has been consistent in its support for Madagascar’s development.

The latest development in this relationship was the significant official visit of Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, to Antananarivo, Madagascar, from December 15 to 17, 2023. He engaged with influential Malagasy business leaders, exploring avenues to enhance trade and economic cooperation between the two nations and he represented Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the Investiture Ceremony of President of Madagascar, H.E. Mr. Andry Rajoelina. He also paid a courtesy call on President Rajoelina, conveying the best wishes of Prime Minister Modi for a successful second term and emphasising the commitment to strengthening India-Madagascar partnership and Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), which is India’s strategic vision for the Indian Ocean, emphasising economic and security cooperation, humanitarian assistance, and countering Chinese influence to promote regional stability and sustainable development.

The official visit reaffirmed India’s dedication to strengthening its longstanding friendship with Madagascar and its reliable and committed development partner.