Madagascar to open embassy in Ankara

On March 2, 2024, during the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Presidents of Madagascar and Turkey convened to reinforce cooperation between their nations, culminating in the signing of a bilateral cooperation and trade agreement by Madagascar’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rafaravavitafika Rasata, and her Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan.

Trade between Madagascar and Turkey has steadily grown since the establishment of the Turkish Embassy in Madagascar, surpassing 200 million USD in 2023. This meeting marks a significant milestone in their collaboration. At President Erdoğan’s behest, Madagascar will open an embassy in Ankara, Turkey’s capital. Additionally, an office of the Turkish Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA) will soon be inaugurated in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital.

President Rajoelina highlighted Madagascar’s receptivity to various partnerships, particularly in infrastructure development, with a focus on the Tanamasoandro new town project in Imerintsiatosika. The new agreement includes the establishment of a joint economic commission aimed at enhancing trade between the two countries. Moreover, the Turkish government plans to furnish Madagascar with a list of Turkish companies capable of aiding in the construction of the new town in Imerintsiatosika. Notably, Turkey fulfills 90 % of Madagascar’s demand for construction materials, underscoring the appeal of attracting Turkish investors to the island nation.