In light of Madagascar’s successful 2013 elections and installation of a new government, the United States has lifted restrictions on provision of foreign assistance to the Indian Ocean island nation. The restrictions had been put in place following a coup d’état in 2009.
President Hery Rajaonarimampianina’s taking office and naming of a cabinet ends a political crisis that damaged the nation’s economy and cost it much support in the international community. Although the United States joined other nations in cutting off direct aid to the Madagascar’s government, our country remained the nation’s largest partner, providing more than $61 million in food security, health, and disaster assistance in 2013 alone. Approximately 150 Peace Corps volunteers serve there as well.
As the African Union now has lifted its suspension of Madagascar’s membership, and the United States is removing all remaining coup-related aid restrictions, President Rajaonarimampianina has been invited to attend the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit to be held in Washington this summer.
Madagascar’s return to democratically elected government represents an opportunity for it to make progress on strengthening democratic rights, combatting corruption and rebuilding its economy. We look forward to working productively with the nation’s new leaders as they work to secure a democratic and prosperous future for the Malagasy people.
President Hery Rajaonarimampianina’s taking office and naming of a cabinet ends a political crisis that damaged the nation’s economy and cost it much support in the international community. Although the United States joined other nations in cutting off direct aid to the Madagascar’s government, our country remained the nation’s largest partner, providing more than $61 million in food security, health, and disaster assistance in 2013 alone. Approximately 150 Peace Corps volunteers serve there as well.
As the African Union now has lifted its suspension of Madagascar’s membership, and the United States is removing all remaining coup-related aid restrictions, President Rajaonarimampianina has been invited to attend the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit to be held in Washington this summer.
Madagascar’s return to democratically elected government represents an opportunity for it to make progress on strengthening democratic rights, combatting corruption and rebuilding its economy. We look forward to working productively with the nation’s new leaders as they work to secure a democratic and prosperous future for the Malagasy people.
