William Ruto and Azali Assoumani were guests of honor at Madagascar's 66th Independence Day celebration. The visit of William Ruto, president of Kenya, to the country was far from insignificant. He attended the celebrations marking the nation's 66th anniversary of independence. On the occasion of this milestone, head of state Michaël Randrianirina delivered a message Friday evening. In a brief address, he acknowledged that the country had not yet achieved true independence due to its strong dependence on foreign powers. "We are still dependent on foreigners," he declared, arguing that this symbolic date should be an opportunity for reflection on national pride and the path that remains to be traveled. According to him, there can be no true independence as long as Madagascar remains dependent on external financing. The head of state emphasized that this dependence is both economic and social. "Our financing still comes from abroad. As a result, we suffer the setbacks of globalization," he explained, highlighting the country's vulnerability to international shocks. Despite this assessment, Michaël Randrianirina sought to inspire hope. He called on Malagasy citizens to continue their collective efforts to achieve "true independence." Madagascar celebrated Thursday the 66th anniversary of its independence under the watchful eye of several major powers. Congratulatory messages arrived from around the world, illustrating the strategic interest the island continues to generate, while celebrations were marked by impressive security measures around the head of state. Beijing, Washington, and Moscow each sent their wishes to the Malagasy people. Three messages with different tones, but reflecting the same desire to strengthen their presence in Antananarivo amid a reshaping of international power dynamics. Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted "the deep bonds of traditional friendship" uniting the two countries. In his message relayed by the presidency, he wished "happiness and peace" to the Malagasy people so that Madagascar could "achieve more in its development." The Chinese leader also emphasized mutual support between Beijing and Antananarivo "on matters of fundamental interests and major concerns," a formulation consistent with the political partnership maintained by the two states. In Washington, Donald Trump favored a discourse more focused on economic opportunities. In his letter to the head of state, the American president emphasized "the potential of partnership with Madagascar" and the prospects offered "through trade, investment, and economic cooperation. We are very enthusiastic about what we can build together," he affirmed, suggesting the United States' desire to strengthen economic relations with the island. From Moscow, Vladimir Putin sent his "wishes for well-being, success, and prosperity" to President Michaël Randrianirina and the Malagasy people. According to the presidency, the Russian leader also expressed his wish to continue joint Russia-Africa actions in view of the next Russia-Africa summit, confirming Moscow's interest in deepening cooperation with Madagascar. Tributes were not limited to major powers. In Africa, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby and Moroccan King Mohammed VI also sent their congratulations. Presidents William Ruto of Kenya and Azali Assoumani of the Union of the Comoros traveled to Antananarivo to attend the official celebrations. In Europe, messages from sovereigns Charles III of the United Kingdom, Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, and Philippe of Belgium were also reported by the presidency. On the military front, the traditional parade organized at Barea Mahamasina stadium lived up to expectations. Defense and security forces presented their various units as well as several military equipment, including materials recently provided by Russia. But beyond the military spectacle, it was the exceptional level of security measures that drew attention. The stands reserved for the couple Michaël Randrianirina, the invited heads of state, William Ruto and Azali Assoumani, as well as senior military advisors, were protected by an imposing bulletproof glass barrier.