Madagascar occupies a strategic position in the new security equation of the Indian Ocean. During her visit to Antananarivo, Catherine Vautrin, the French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans, expressed her desire to strengthen the defense and security partnership with the Great Island, particularly regarding maritime surveillance and the protection of the Mozambique Channel. The French minister emphasized that this cooperation is conducted with full respect for Malagasy sovereignty and does not seek to create any form of dependency.
In an interview with L’Express de Madagascar, Minister Vautrin highlighted the historical and constant partnership between the two nations. She noted that France supports the ‘Refoundation’ process in Madagascar, provided it aligns with the legitimate development aspirations of the Malagasy people. The minister outlined two key priorities for the current cooperation: enhancing the capabilities of the Malagasy Armed Forces to consolidate their sovereignty and developing cooperation that directly benefits the population, such as military engineering projects to improve road access and medical equipment donations.
Addressing questions about the diversification of Madagascar’s military partnerships, including with Russia, Vautrin stated that every state is free to choose its partners. She emphasized that France’s enduring partnership is built on mutual trust, concrete operational training, and a broad cooperation framework that extends beyond defense to economic development, higher education, and culture.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-06 06:08:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/catherine-vautrin-madagascar-occupe-une.html