The meeting took place as scheduled. Emmanuel Macron and Colonel Michaël Randrianirina held talks on Thursday, September 10 at the Élysée Palace in Paris. The appointment was officially on the French president's agenda at 12:05 p.m., on the sidelines of the International Space Summit. At the heart of the discussions: relations between Madagascar and France and prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation. This tête-à-tête marks the second meeting between the two heads of state since the Malagasy junta leader came to power. Their first in-person meeting dates back to February 24, 2026, when Michaël Randrianirina was received at the Élysée by Emmanuel Macron. The two leaders had then defined several priorities for Franco-Malagasy relations, notably political dialogue, economic development, and cooperation in security and defense matters. Six months later, this second meeting confirms the continuation of high-level dialogue between Paris and Antananarivo. According to the Malagasy presidency, discussions notably focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries. Unlike the February meeting, which was followed by a detailed joint communiqué, little information has so far been made public about the precise content of this new discussion. A major economic issue was nonetheless likely to be among the topics addressed: the Volobe hydroelectric project. Before his departure for Europe, Michaël Randrianirina had himself indicated that this question should be discussed with Emmanuel Macron. The project remains facing several decisive stages, notably the finalization of its financial structure as well as negotiations relating to electricity rates and concession duration. France is directly concerned with this matter. During their first meeting in February, Paris had reaffirmed its support for the Volobe project among investments deemed important for Madagascar's development. After his time in Paris, Michaël Randrianirina continued his European tour in Belgium. In Brussels, the Malagasy head of state was to engage in multiple exchanges with political and European officials. The Volobe question was also to occupy an important place there, with Madagascar seeking international financing to realize this infrastructure intended to strengthen its electricity production capacity. Beyond economic projects, this tour constitutes an important diplomatic sequence for the Malagasy authorities. Michaël Randrianirina's participation in the summit organized in Paris allows him to multiply international contacts and consolidate Madagascar's relations with its various partners.