Economic and Infrastructure Cooperation Takes Center Stage

On August 11, 2026, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, President of Madagascar’s Refondation movement, attended Chad’s 66th Independence Day celebrations in N’Djamena. Held at the Place de la Nation, the event featured a grand military parade. Invited by President of Chad Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, Randrianirina joined celebrations alongside Guinea-Bissau’s President General Horta N’Tam. All three leaders wore military uniforms during the ceremony.

Beyond the festivities, the visit provided a platform to deepen ties between Antananarivo and N’Djamena. The day prior, the two heads of state convened to explore ways to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation. Discussions centered on economic growth and infrastructure development. Randrianirina emphasized the importance of African unity, stating, “When Africans stand together and support one another, the continent thrives.”

Reviving Historical Bonds Through Partnership

The Malagasy leader highlighted the need to revitalize the long-standing diplomatic relations between Madagascar and Chad, which have seen periods of reduced engagement over the years. Despite this, both nations share common historical ties, having been French colonies, adopted Republic status in 1958, and gained independence in 1960. These shared experiences create fertile ground for renewed collaboration.

Chad’s President has announced plans for an upcoming state visit to Madagascar, aiming to further solidify cooperation between the two countries. This reciprocal engagement underscores a shared commitment to leveraging their historical connections and contemporary strengths for mutual progress.