Madagascar’s international relations are generally shaped by the political choices of the country’s leaders. Even after colonisation, France has always maintained a privileged relationship with the Great Island, whether economically, culturally, or diplomatically.
During the Second Republic (1978–1991), which championed independence and non-alignment, Madagascar forged close ties with socialist countries and radical regimes of the era, including the Soviet Union, North Korea, Cuba, Libya, and Iran. From 1993 onwards, when President Albert Zafy took office, Madagascar has steadily expanded its cooperation and interactions with the rest of the world. Despite its physical isolation and notable traditionalism, globalisation has encouraged the Malagasy government to adopt market-oriented policies. During his tenure, President Ravalomanana even consciously sought to strengthen ties with English-speaking countries to counterbalance the strong historical French influence.
Madagascar is also a member of several international organisations, including the United Nations, the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, the African Union, the Indian Ocean Commission, and many others.
In Canada, the Malagasy embassy is located in Ottawa. Several diplomatic missions, primarily economic in nature, have been undertaken in Canada by Malagasy government delegations. Conversely, several major Canadian mining companies have been actively present on the Great Island for many years.
In the United States, there are two Malagasy embassies in Washington DC and New York, along with two honorary consulates in Solana Beach and Philadelphia. Madagascar’s relationship with the United States dates back to the 1800s, resulting in a trade convention in 1867 and a treaty of peace, friendship, and commerce in 1881.