Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla affirmed India’s partnership with Madagascar as a crucial ally in the Indian Ocean region. He emphasized historical ties, humanitarian assistance, and a commitment to regional security and economic growth. Both nations are optimistic about fostering closer collaboration in various sectors including agriculture, maritime security, and education.
On March 12, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla reaffirmed India’s strong bond with Madagascar, describing it as a trusted friend and essential partner in the Indian Ocean region. He emphasized that the relationship aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative, which aims to foster regional stability and economic prosperity.
During a meeting with a Madagascar Parliamentary Delegation led by H.E. Mr. Justin Tokely, Birla noted the historical strength of India-Madagascar ties, rooted in centuries of trade, culture, and cooperation. He highlighted India’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in Madagascar, showcasing India’s commitment to socially beneficial projects that enhance Madagascar’s development.
Birla stated the importance of the Indian Diaspora in Madagascar, acknowledging their role in strengthening bilateral relations. He praised the successful Jaipur Foot Camp in Madagascar, where many differently-abled individuals received artificial limbs, exemplifying the impact of India’s aid initiatives.
He underscored India’s legacy as the world’s largest democracy, showcasing the continuous growth in voter participation, reaching a turnout of nearly 66% in the 2024 general elections. Additionally, he discussed the functioning of the Indian Parliament and expressed hopes for collaboration through capacity-building initiatives offered by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) to Madagascar.
H.E. Mr. Justin Tokely expressed gratitude for India’s hospitality and praised its economic growth and technological advancements. He highlighted shared interests in agriculture, maritime security, health, and education, expressing optimism for increased economic cooperation, parliamentary collaboration, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
The delegation, which arrived in India on Monday, also attended a Lok Sabha session, where they were warmly welcomed by Speaker Birla, signaling a desire for continued diplomatic and inter-parliamentary relations.
The meeting between Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and the Malagasy delegation underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Madagascar, rooted in historical ties and mutual assistance. The focus on collaborative projects and shared development goals presents a promising avenue for enhancing bilateral cooperation, notably in areas like agriculture, health, and democratic governance.
Original Source: www.tripurastarnews.com
