Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla emphasized India’s strong relationship with Madagascar during a meeting with a Malagasy Parliamentary Delegation. He highlighted Madagascar’s role in India’s ‘SAGAR’ vision, the historical ties shared, and India’s humanitarian commitments. Both parties expressed interest in enhancing cooperation across various sectors.
On March 12, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla acknowledged Madagascar as a valued friend and a key partner for India in the Indian Ocean Region. He articulated that Madagascar’s role aligns with India’s ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative, emphasizing the partnership’s significance in promoting regional stability and prosperity.
During discussions with a Malagasy Parliamentary Delegation headed by H. E. Mr. Justin Tokely, Shri Birla remarked on the longstanding historical ties between India and Madagascar, rooted in centuries of trade, culture, and mutual benefit. He highlighted India’s principled commitment to aid neighboring nations, particularly during disasters, and mentioned India’s humanitarian assistance initiatives in Madagascar, affirming the mutual development ethos underpinning their relations.
Shri Birla also recognized the integral contributions of the Indian Diaspora in Madagascar toward enhancing bilateral relations. He expressed satisfaction regarding the first ‘Jaipur Foot Camp’ held in Madagascar, which provided artificial limbs to numerous individuals with disabilities.
Discussing India’s rich democratic tradition, Shri Birla underscored India’s status as the world’s oldest and largest democracy, noting its long-standing legacy of collective decision-making. He reported an impressive 66% voter turnout in the 2024 general elections, reflecting the citizens’ engagement with the democratic process. Shri Birla also informed the delegation about the workings of the Indian Parliament and the budget session process.
Moreover, he referenced capacity-building programs offered by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE), expressing his desire to tailor training initiatives for Madagascar’s parliamentary members. He encouraged regular exchanges between the parliaments, aiming for enriched learning of legislative practices and traditions.
H. E. Mr. Justin Tokely extended gratitude to Shri Birla for the warm welcome and hospitality from the Indian Parliament. He expressed admiration for India’s economic advancement and technological prowess, highlighting shared interests in agriculture, maritime security, health, and education, aspiring for enhanced cooperation and cultural exchange between their respective nations. The delegation observed the Lok Sabha proceedings, receiving a warm welcome from the Speaker.
In summary, the bilateral meeting between Shri Om Birla and the Malagasy Parliamentary Delegation underscores the close collaboration between India and Madagascar, focusing on shared goals in regional stability and mutual development. As both nations seek to enhance their partnership through cooperation in various sectors such as disaster relief, democracy, and capacity building, this interaction lays a foundation for future engagements. The expressions of gratitude and admiration from both sides highlight a growing commitment towards deepening ties.
Original Source: www.tripurastarnews.com
