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| The ambassador and the governor reforest together in Djabala. |
Following his recent visit to Antsiranana, the Indian Ambassador to Madagascar, Bandaru Wilsonbabu, spent two days in the prefecture of Nosy Be. Cooperation is in good shape as evidenced by his stay.
India does not want to lose the North. As one of the most prosperous countries in the tourism sector, the ambassador’s visit is therefore an advantage for the city of Nosy Be, as it will examine the exchange of experiences between the two parties in terms of tourism and trade.
Despite a busy schedule, he devoted time to meeting local and regional authorities. The objective was to establish the bases of cooperation between India and the Diana region, focused on tourism and trade, as well as improving water catchment in Nosy Be.
The first meeting began with a trip to Djabala, located ten kilometers from the city, where the Indo-Malagasy delegation planted trees together in order to preserve the environment. This was also the tradition performed every September 17 in all embassies of the Indian Republic, as per the policy of their government.
Of course, reforestation means protecting the environment for its sustainability, but the young plants planted on this island once again symbolize India’s presence in the region. According to the ambassador, India and Madagascar are developing countries, and they need to make great efforts to plant trees to prevent climate change.
To do this, the ambassador invited the governor of Diana, Taciano Rakotomanga, and other regional officials to come together to the scene.
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Then, the second meeting was held at the Aro building, during which the two sides discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation between the Indian Republic and the Diana region, particularly in the tourism and trade sectors. Given that India is one of the most prosperous countries in terms of tourism, the Ambassador’s visit represents an asset for the Nosy Be prefecture, as it will facilitate the exchange of experiences between the two parties in these areas.
During an interview, the two leaders are all convinced that the time is now favorable to initiate a memorandum of understanding in order to achieve the objectives in Madagascar’s general policy. The launch of tourist activities is in perspective, because Nosy Be, a true jewel of Madagascar, is a popular destination for its escape and its natural beauty. In addition to tourism potential, subjects such as agriculture, education and maritime security were discussed by the governor.
This opportunity also allowed the Indian diplomat to briefly discuss the tourism potential between India and Madagascar. He said India, with its rich history and culture, is always a favorite destination for international tourists and they are keen to explore exotic destinations abroad.
“I am convinced that with its pristine beaches and its exotic flora and fauna, Nosy Be and the Diana region will be able to attract more Indian tourists in the coming days,” he said, while indicating that the Indian Embassy will work closely with the Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts and the authorities of the Diana region to improve mutual tourist flows between the two countries.
To end his stay on the island of perfumes, Ambassador Bandaru Wilsonbabu organized a special yoga session on the beach of Nosy Be Hotel, inviting the Malagasy authorities to participate.
Raheriniaina