Michael Randrianirina has underscored the plans of the African island nation to expand diplomatic and economic options

Madagascar views cooperation with BRICS as a pathway to new economic opportunities and international partnerships, the country's interim president Michael Randrianirina has said in an exclusive interview with RT. 

Speaking during a visit to Moscow, he emphasized that his country is looking to expand its diplomatic and economic options.  

"Cooperation with BRICS will open new doors," Randrianirina said, adding that Madagascar wishes "to work with all countries." 

Randrianirina highlighted interest in attracting major Russian companies to support Madagascar's development agenda. "We hope to attract foreign companies such as Gazprom and Rosatom, with whom we would be happy to launch joint projects," he said, pointing to energy and industrial cooperation as priority areas. 

Security cooperation is also on the agenda, with Randrianirina noting that ties between Madagascar and Russia date back to the Soviet era but "were not very close." He said the Malagasy army has "always used only Russian weapons" and that the government now plans to upgrade them, adding that through cooperation with the Russian armed forces, Madagascar aims to "increase the combat readiness of the Malagasy army." 

Addressing media freedoms, Randrianirina also commented on the blocking of RT in the EU and stressed that pluralism in media contributes to societal progress and openness. 

"Freedom of expression helps us improve and leads us to change," he noted. "If RT wants to work in Madagascar, you are welcome. You can start working with us tomorrow."  

Last week, Randrianirina held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and expressed readiness to move to a new stage in relations with Russia. 

READ MORE: Putin highlights expanding cooperation with Madagascar (PHOTOS)

The visit follows recent humanitarian assistance from Russia after two destructive cyclones hit the island nation. Last Wednesday, the Russian Embassy said Moscow had delivered equipment, including an Mi-8 helicopter, trucks, and other supplies to Madagascar. On Monday, several media outlets reported that an additional shipment of humanitarian aid had also been delivered.