French President Emmanuel Macron’s two-day visit to Madagascar began Wednesday, marking the first trip by a French leader to the island nation in 20 years. During his visit, Macron emphasized the need for France to explore new markets and deepen economic ties in the Indian Ocean region.
Macron met with Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina in the capital, Antananarivo, where the two leaders signed agreements spanning energy, agriculture, and education.
The discussions also touched on longstanding colonial-era disputes, including Madagascar’s claims over the Scattered Islands and the demand for the return of royal remains.
The Scattered Islands, five small territories off the coast of Madagascar, are currently French overseas territories but are claimed by Madagascar.
While France favors joint management of the islands, Madagascar seeks full control, following a precedent set by the UK’s transfer of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.
Additionally, Macron pledged to facilitate the return of three human remains, including the skull of King Toera, taken by French forces over 125 years ago. The remains were previously displayed in a Paris museum.
A significant highlight of the trip was the announcement of funding for a hydroelectric dam project in Volobe, Madagascar.
This long-planned development, supported by both the French Development Agency and French treasury loans, promises to boost the country’s energy infrastructure.
Macron’s visit comes ahead of a summit of the Indian Ocean Commission, where he will discuss regional cooperation with leaders from Mauritius, Seychelles, and Comoros.
The meeting underscores France’s growing focus on East Africa and the Indian Ocean market.
The discussions, though focused on cooperation, also reflect the complexity of historical grievances that still shape relations between the two nations.
