On March 12, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla hailed Madagascar as a trusted partner for India in the Indian Ocean region, outlining the shared historical ties and collaborative efforts between the two nations. He emphasized India’s humanitarian assistance, Madagascar’s importance in the SAGAR vision, and the potential for future cooperation in various sectors, notably agriculture, security, and education.
On March 12, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla expressed India’s deep respect for Madagascar, identifying it as a valued ally in the Indian Ocean region. He highlighted that, in accordance with the “SAGAR” vision, Madagascar is essential for enhancing regional stability and fostering economic wealth across the area. This assessment arose during a bilateral meeting with H. E. Mr. Justin Tokely, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar.
During the meeting, Shri Birla remarked on the long-standing ties between India and Madagascar, which have been shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchanges. He reiterated India’s commitment to aiding its neighboring countries, especially during crises, as part of the principle of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam’. Shri Birla noted India’s humanitarian efforts in Madagascar, including various socio-economic development projects.
Shri Birla acknowledged the vital contributions of the Indian Diaspora in Madagascar to strengthen bilateral relations. He expressed pride in the inaugural ‘Jaipur Foot Camp’ hosted in Madagascar, where numerous individuals with disabilities received artificial limbs. He outlined that such initiatives reflect India’s dedication to mutual development.
Highlighting India’s democratic heritage, Shri Birla stated that as the world’s oldest democracy, India has a rich legacy of democratic governance. He emphasized that the increasing voter turnout, which reached nearly 66% in the 2024 general elections, showcases the Indian populace’s strong engagement in the democratic process, further affirming democracy as an integral part of India’s cultural and spiritual identity.
Shri Birla informed the Malagasy delegation about the functioning of the Indian Parliament and its budgetary processes. He expressed hope for the impact of capacity-building programs offered by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) on Madagascar’s legislature, suggesting training tailored to their specific requirements. Such exchanges, he asserted, would foster mutual learning between the two countries’ parliamentary traditions.
Gratitude was expressed by H. E. Mr. Justin Tokely towards Shri Birla and the Indian Parliament for their hospitality. He commended India’s technological advancements and its economic growth, while articulating shared interests in areas like agriculture, maritime security, health, and education. Moreover, he expressed hopes for enhanced economic collaboration, parliamentary cooperation, and cultural exchange.
The delegation, which arrived in India on Monday, also had the opportunity to observe the Lok Sabha’s proceedings. Shri Birla warmly welcomed them on behalf of all Members of the House, marking an important step in bilateral relations.
In summary, the bilateral meeting between Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla and H. E. Mr. Justin Tokely of Madagascar underscored the profound friendship and partnership between the two nations. Both leaders emphasized mutual interests in several domains, alongside the shared commitment to regional stability and development. India’s role as a reliable ally to Madagascar, particularly in terms of humanitarian assistance and capacity-building initiatives, positions the relationship for further growth and cooperation.
Original Source: www.tripurastarnews.com
