Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks on Thursday with Madagascar’s interim leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, at the Kremlin, marking one of the colonel’s first major international engagements since assuming office.
Randrianirina has led Madagascar on an interim basis since October, after the former president fled the country amid demonstrations. His visit to Moscow comes weeks after Russia delivered military equipment to the island and dispatched instructors to train Malagasy forces, including on the use of drones.
During the meeting, Putin described Madagascar as an “important partner” in Africa and outlined potential areas for expanded cooperation, including agriculture, geological exploration, energy, healthcare, education and broader humanitarian initiatives.
The Russian leader also conveyed condolences over a recent cyclone that struck the island, killing at least 40 people this month.
Before departing for Moscow, Randrianirina said he had been invited by the Russian government. Following his visit to Russia, he is expected to travel to France as part of his diplomatic outreach efforts.