Madagascar’s Interim President Michael Randrianirina met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, solidifying the island nation’s strategic alignment with BRICS. The talks focused on reviving a dormant partnership, with plans for energy collaboration with Russian state giants Gazprom and Rosatom. Military cooperation and humanitarian aid were also discussed, marking a significant shift in Madagascar’s foreign policy toward Russia-Africa ties.
Madagascar has formalized its strategic pivot toward BRICS following a high-level meeting between Interim President Michael Randrianirina and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The visit confirmed that Madagascar’s BRICS alignment is now a central pillar of its international strategy, reviving a partnership dormant since the Soviet era.
Randrianirina outlined specific industrial ambitions for this renewed cooperation. He stated a desire to attract foreign companies like Gazprom and Rosatom for joint projects. The president also highlighted longstanding military ties, noting the Malagasy army has historically relied on Russian equipment.
The Putin-Madagascar meeting was underscored by tangible Russian support following severe cyclones. Russia dispatched humanitarian aid including an Mi-8 helicopter and support trucks, adding concrete weight to the diplomatic discussions. Randrianirina also extended an open invitation for the Russian state media outlet RT to operate in Madagascar.
Regarding the broader strategic shift, the president was direct about the expected benefits. He said cooperation with BRICS will open new doors for the nation. This move aligns Madagascar with a pattern of African governments reassessing old alliances in favor of expanded Russia-Africa cooperation.
