On March 12, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla acknowledged Madagascar as a key partner for India in the Indian Ocean, emphasizing their historical relationship and commitment to cooperation in areas like humanitarian assistance, democracy, and economic growth. The meeting included discussions on capacity-building initiatives and bilateral exchanges.
On March 12, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla emphasized India’s deep respect and commitment to Madagascar, labeling it as a vital partner in the Indian Ocean region. He affirmed that the partnership aligns with India’s “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, which is integral for regional stability and economic prosperity.
During a meeting with a delegation from Madagascar, led by H. E. Mr. Justin Tokely, President of the National Assembly, Shri Birla highlighted the historical ties between the two nations, rooted in centuries of trade and cultural exchange. He underscored India’s principle of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam’ and its humanitarian efforts, particularly in disaster relief initiatives, to support Madagascar’s socio-economic development.
Shri Birla praised the significant role of the Indian Diaspora in Madagascar, contributing to the strengthening of bilateral relations. He expressed his satisfaction regarding the establishment of the first ‘Jaipur Foot Camp’ in Madagascar, which provided artificial limbs to numerous differently-abled individuals, reflecting India’s commitment to mutual development.
Stressing India’s democratic values, Shri Birla conveyed that India, as the world’s oldest democracy, has a rich historical tradition of collective decision-making. He highlighted the consistent rise in voter participation, noting the 66% turnout in the 2024 general elections, and discussed the functioning of the Indian Parliament and the Budget Session with the Malagasy delegation.
Moreover, Shri Birla expressed his desire to enhance cooperation through capacity-building initiatives, facilitated by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE). He called for tailored training programs aimed at Madagascar’s parliamentarians to foster collaborative exchanges between the two nations.
H. E. Mr. Justin Tokely conveyed his gratitude to Shri Birla for the delegation’s warm welcome in India, and acknowledged India’s advancements in technology and economic growth. He expressed enthusiasm for fostering closer cooperation in areas such as agriculture, maritime security, health, and education, to enhance bilateral ties. The Malagasy delegation also attended Lok Sabha house proceedings during their visit.
In conclusion, the meeting between Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla and the Malagasy delegation highlights the strong historical ties and mutual commitment between India and Madagascar. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including humanitarian aid and democratic practices. Both nations aspire to bolster their partnership, ensuring stability and shared prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.
Original Source: www.tripurastarnews.com
