Colonel Michaël Randrianirina's trip to Europe centers on several economic matters. The Volobe project and space cooperation are among the key issues. The colonel's visit to France and Belgium comes with multiple economic files on the agenda. Projects, investments and financing are notably at stake during this European tour. The Volobe hydroelectric project is one of the main files concerned.

In Paris, the head of state participates in the International Summit on Space at the Grand Palais. Madagascar wishes to develop space technology and already has partnerships in this field. In July, a memorandum of understanding was signed with two Chinese companies for the development of a satellite project. The space sector is thus part of the cooperation areas discussed during this visit.

The Volobe file should however receive particular attention. The project involves building a hydroelectric dam on the Ivondro river in the Atsinanana region. It has been pending for nearly ten years. Negotiations between the State and the Compagnie générale d'hydroélectricité de Volobe focus notably on the price per kilowatt-hour and the duration of the concession.

Developments have occurred in the project structure. During his visit to Madagascar in April 2025, Emmanuel Macron announced Électricité de France's entry into the Volobe consortium. In July, an amendment was signed between the State and the Compagnie générale d'hydroélectricité de Volobe. It extends discussions between the two parties until June 2027.

Finalization and securing of financing remain on the agenda. Possible state participation in the project capital, the price per kilowatt-hour and the duration of the concession are among the points still being discussed. In Belgium, energy matters should also be addressed with a senior EU official. The European Union has already positioned itself to provide financial support for Volobe's implementation. The presidential visit thus highlights projects whose financing and implementation conditions remain to be finalized.