Madagascar is charting a new course for its foreign policy. According to Agence de Presse Africaine, the national symposium on Malagasy diplomacy concluded in Antananarivo after five days of intensive talks aimed at shaping a strategic White Paper for the country by 2040.
The closing ceremony on September 17, 2026, featured presentations from the High Counselors of the Refondation of the Republic of Madagascar, General Zafitason dry Ranoelson Manantenasoa Marcellin and Colonel Rampanarivo Solofoniaina Thierry. Foreign Minister Alice N’Diaye outlined the core recommendations gathered during the multi-stakeholder workshops held earlier in the month.
Five Core Pillars Guide Madagascar’s New Diplomatic Roadmap
Held from September 7 to 11, 2026, the diplomatic assizes brought together active and retired diplomats, military officials, academics, students, business leaders, civil society groups, and members of the Malagasy diaspora. According to official reports, discussions centered around five distinct roundtables addressing the nation’s international positioning, economic diplomacy, territorial diplomacy, maritime security, and institutional modernization.
Participants emphasized the need to leverage Madagascar’s strategic assets to drive economic growth and protect national sovereignty. Key priorities include strengthening maritime security, increasing the active involvement of the diaspora, and promoting Malagasy culture and science globally. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the resulting proposals are structured across three distinct timeframes: immediate fundamental reforms, mid-term high-priority projects, and long-term structural transformations leading to 2040.
SADC Demands Inclusive Dialogue Amid Transition
While domestic stakeholders plan long-term reforms, regional bodies are pressing for immediate political inclusivity.
The SADC communique insists that the transitional government initiate an inclusive national dialogue owned and directed by the Malagasy people. The regional organization requires that all political actors, civil society groups, and vital forces participate, while urging the creation of an environment that allows political exiles to return safely. President Ramaphosa emphasized that lasting stability depends on an inclusive process rather than exclusion.
Strict Timelines and International Mediation
To ensure compliance with regional demands, the SADC has established strict reporting deadlines. The transitional government must submit a comprehensive progress report on national dialogue preparations and a draft national roadmap by February 28, 2026. Periodic updates are also mandated for May, August, and November 2026 before the chair of the SADC Organ.
To support this mediation effort, the SADC confirmed the continuation of the Panel of Sages, led by former Malawian President Dr. Joyce Banda, through March 2026. This panel assists local leaders in reaching a consensus during a sensitive political climate where recent rulings by the High Constitutional Court (HCC) have sidelined several prominent political figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the primary goal of the diplomatic assizes in Antananarivo? The meetings gathered diverse stakeholders to establish strategic orientations for Madagascar’s foreign policy, culminating in a White Paper projected out to 2040.
- Who participated in the September 2026 consultations? Participants included active and retired diplomats, military personnel, academics, students, entrepreneurs, civil society representatives, and members of the Malagasy diaspora.
- What are the regional requirements set by the SADC? The SADC demands an inclusive national dialogue that incorporates all political actors and civil society, with a progress report and roadmap due by February 28, 2026.
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