The three-day visit focused on a broad range of prevalent issues and ideas
In a move marking India's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across the globe, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Dammu Ravi has completed a productive three-day visit to Antananarivo, Madagascar.
 
He represented Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Investiture Ceremony of the President during the visit from December 15 to 17, 2023. Interactions during the visit aimed to deepen bilateral ties and explore economic synergies.
 
The visit began on December 15, 2023, when Secretary (ER) Ravi was welcomed at Antananarivo Airport by Secretary General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar Tahirimiakadaza Ratsimandao. Later in the evening, the Secretary interacted with prominent Malagasy business leaders and discussed ways to further enhance trade-economic cooperation between India and Madagascar, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday (December 18, 2023).
 
On December 16, Secretary Ravi represented Prime Minister Modi at the Investiture Ceremony of Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina. He also paid a courtesy call on the President and conveyed best wishes of Prime Minister Modi for a successful second tenure of the President and for further strengthening of India-Madagascar partnership and Vision SAGAR.
 
On the sidelines of the Investiture Ceremony, Secretary (ER) briefly interacted with President of Comoros and current Chairperson of the African Union Azali Assoumani. He conveyed warm greetings of Prime Minister Modi for stronger India-Africa Partnership, the MEA said. 
 
In addition to the official engagements, Secretary Ravi participated in an event with the Indian community in Antananarivo. This reception, hosted by the Embassy of India, was an opportunity for him to speak about India's ongoing economic transformation under Prime Minister Modi's leadership.
 
He encouraged the Indian diaspora in Madagascar to contribute towards stronger trade-economic cooperation and people-to-people linkages between the two countries. The event also included cultural performances by members of the Indian community.
 
The official visit of Secretary (ER) to Antananarivo reaffirmed India's commitment to further strengthen its traditional ties of friendship with Madagascar. 
 
"As a close neighbour and fellow developing country in the Indian Ocean Region, India will remain a reliable and committed development partner for Madagascar," the MEA noted.