Madagascar’s New Direction: Towards the BRICS and the Middle East

Mis à jour le 21 May 2026

In a rapidly changing geopolitical context, Madagascar is embarking on a major strategic shift by reorienting its international engagement. Since 2025, under the leadership of the new political majority, the country has sought to diversify its partnerships, emphasizing a pragmatic approach towards the BRICS group and key players in the Middle East. This approach reflects a desire to strengthen economic sovereignty and move beyond a framework traditionally dominated by Western cooperation. The COVID-19 pandemic, combined with increased volatility in international markets, has exacerbated the need for Madagascar to build new diplomatic and economic bridges, particularly by leveraging emerging alliances. The relevance of this new path has not gone unnoticed by observers. It represents an attempt to overcome the numerous challenges facing the country: low productivity, dependence on external financing, persistent political instability, all while navigating an increasingly turbulent international environment. A Diplomatic Repositioning: From Dubai to Pretoria, a Strategy of Openness The recent diplomatic meetings undertaken by President Michaël Randrianirina reflect a clear desire to reposition Madagascar as an ambitious geopolitical player. His trip to Dubai strengthened economic cooperation, particularly in the infrastructure and strategic investment sectors, by leveraging the geostrategic position of the Middle East. The agreement concluded with the United Arab Emirates demonstrates an effort to diversify its sources of funding and attract foreign investors to the local economy.

Subsequently, the visit to South Africa marked a decisive turning point. By meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria, Madagascar confirmed its interest in a strategic partnership with one of the founding powers of the BRICS group. The collaboration will focus in particular on strengthening exchanges in air transport, maritime trade, and scientific research. By prioritizing these alliances, Madagascar hopes to embark on a balanced and resilient development path. African diplomacy sees this as a crucial lever, as this partnership would accelerate the realization of its economic and security ambitions.

Explore the strategic relationships between Madagascar, the BRICS countries, and the Middle East, highlighting economic, cultural, and political exchanges.

The growing role of the Middle East in Madagascar’s new economic strategy

Links with the Middle East have taken on a crucial strategic dimension. The signing of agreements with the United Arab Emirates, particularly in infrastructure and investment, demonstrates a concrete commitment to leveraging this dynamic region. For Madagascar, these partnerships offer financing opportunities in key sectors, including port infrastructure development, sustainable energy, and technology.

Trade between Madagascar and these countries is increasing, facilitating the import of advanced technologies and the creation of local jobs. The political stability of the Middle East, coupled with the economic ambitions of its partners, provides a solid foundation for building promising joint projects. The region is thus emerging as a key player in Madagascar’s economic development, enabling it to reduce its dependence on its former Western partners.

The Stakes and Challenges of This New Direction for Madagascar

This diplomatic repositioning raises several questions regarding its coherence and long-term effects. The shift towards the BRICS group and the Middle East is a bold strategy, but it must be accompanied by concrete measures to strengthen internal governance. Political stability, transparency, and the fight against corruption remain essential conditions for attracting sustainable investment.Furthermore, the diversification of partnerships must be part of a structural development strategy, particularly by improving the competitiveness of the Malagasy economy. According to a World Bank study, it is urgent to close the productivity gap to guarantee inclusive growth (see here). The implementation of coherent public policies is therefore essential to transform these opportunities into tangible results.

Another major constraint lies in the need to skillfully manage the security and diplomatic challenges linked to these alliances. Cooperation with Russia or China, for example, could provoke contrasting reactions on the international stage. It becomes crucial to maintain strategic neutrality, while ensuring respect for commitments and constitutional principles.

A diplomatic reform to strengthen Madagascar’s international imageThe strategic shift adopted by Madagascar must be accompanied by an overhaul of its diplomacy in order to maximize its benefits. The modernization of diplomatic structures, the training of young diplomats, and active participation in international forums are becoming priorities. More information

By expanding its diplomatic reach, Madagascar will be better able to defend its economic and security interests, while also playing a greater role in shaping international rules that support its ambitions. Increased visibility in these new centers of influence will allow it to broaden its networks, forge new alliances, and secure its strategic investments.

This diplomatic dynamism must also be part of a process of transparency and ongoing dialogue with its partners, in order to build mutual trust. Institutional communication plays a key role in broadening Madagascar’s image as an actor capable of navigating a complex international environment.

Discover the economic and diplomatic ties between Madagascar, the BRICS countries, and the Middle East, and their impact on regional development.

Impact on economic development: a top priority for MadagascarAt the heart of this strategy lies a firm commitment to transforming the country’s economic trajectory. Diversifying partnerships should lead to a significant increase in investment, the modernization of infrastructure, and the stimulation of growth. According to a recent study by the Schiller Institute, Madagascar could accelerate its economic performance by exploiting its natural resources while developing a dynamic private sector (see here). Priority Areas for Madagascar 📊Recommended Actions 🔧

The country seeks to diversify its partnerships, attract investment, strengthen its economic sovereignty, secure its supplies, and reduce its dependence on Western financing.

What are the main challenges of this new foreign policy?

The risks associated with managing alliances with emerging powers, the need to maintain political stability, and the importance of ensuring effective governance to capitalize on new opportunities.

How does this strategy influence Madagascar’s economic development? It should encourage investment, modernize infrastructure and stimulate growth, but requires careful management to avoid imbalances and ensure inclusive growth.