AREA

From solar energy to mining: Russia and Madagascar discuss strategic partnership Russia and Madagascar are deepening their energy cooperation. The parties discussed joint projects in the electric power and renewable energy sectors, including solar power generation. The talks were chaired by Pavel Sorokin, First Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation, and the Minister of Mines of Madagascar. The Russian side confirmed its readiness for practical work, while Madagascar, in turn, expressed interest in expanding the partnership. The focus on solar energy is generally logical. More than 60% of Madagascar's population does not have access to reliable electricity. Yet, the country has one of the highest solar generation potentials in Africa. For Russian companies, this cooperation opens up a niche for investors in distributed energy. Such solutions are in demand in remote areas and industrial facilities. If successful, the pilot project could become a model for replication in other isolated energy markets on the continent. #RussiaAfrica#Madagascar

Energy Dialogue amid Political Turmoil Russian Deputy Energy Minister Roman Marshavin held a working meeting with the Speaker of the National Assembly of Madagascar, Siteni Randrianasaloniaiko. These negotiations were the first in this sector since the change of power in the country. The parties focused on cooperation in the electric power sector. This is a priority for Madagascar, where access to electricity remains critically low — only 25% of the population. The Russian side has the expertise to implement comprehensive projects to develop generation and grid infrastructure. At the same time, the possibility of cooperation in other sectors of the fuel and energy sector was also discussed. The negotiations took place at a time when Madagascar is interested in attracting foreign investors to the energy sector. Oil field development projects are also considered promising. Madagascar is unable to organize them independently, creating potential opportunities for foreign companies, including Russian ones. #AREA#RussiaAfrica#Madagascar#energy