Madagascar from a Chinese Perspective

The new exhibition hosted by the National Library in Antananarivo, capital of Madagascar, has something quite different about it. Indeed, the artist whose photographs are on disply is the Chinese Ambassador to Madagascar,Yang Min. His Excellency Yang Min donated the photographs as a gift to the Ministry of Culture and Handicraft. The goal is to strengthen intercultural relations between China and Madagascar as well as revive tourism on the island.

In the field of international relations, cultural diplomacy is a rather new subject but,in fact it has been practiced for centuries, for example in the past it came in the form of the exchange of gifts. H.E. Yang Min’s initiative is thus an example of cultural diplomacy. Photography is a hobby the ambassador takes very seriously and his passion for Madagascar and its rich culture is translated into his exhibition. Through the depiction of scenes of daily-life, landscapes and portraits of people and places in Madagascar, H.E. Yang Min shows his passion about the island with great interest.

The exhibition is more than just an artistic project as it represents the occasion for China and Madagascar to strengthen bilateral relations. Since his appointment as ambassador to Madagascar in 2013, H.E. Yang Min has consistently tried to reinforce cooperation between the two countries. The use of the pictures as a gift, is a symbolic way to demonstrate the Chinese Embassy’s goodwill and commitment to good relations in Madagascar.

Two other concerns are at the heart of the project. The first one is the celebration of the 55th anniversary of Madagascan Independence. After sixty-five years of colonization by the French, Madagascar obtained its independence in June, 26th, 1960. The exhibition organized by H.E. Yang Min and the National Library aims to celebrate this event and to show Malagasy the beauty and cultural wealth of their island. The other concern relates to tourism. During the last few years, the political unrest on the island has contributed to a decrease in tourism, which represents 3% of the GDP. Showing the wonders of Madagascar to the large population of China, is also a way of attracting tourists, taking the exhibition as an opportunity to promote the island in China. This objective is part of wider development project between China and Madagascar. Indeed, China has increased its investments on the island for several years. At the same time, Madagascar is seeking expertise in various areas, from agriculture to infrastructure and transport, and the wide knowledge of China in these fields is warmly welcomed and encouraged.