U.S. Ambassador Claire Pierangelo completed a four-day visit to Toliara, where she participated in the Regional Economic Forum of Atsimo Andrefana. The purpose of her visit was to support American investment and promote the region.
Ambassador Pierangelo engaged with local communities, authorities, business leaders, university professors, and students. She emphasized that American businesses like Energy Fuels, which acquired the Base Toliara project, must adhere to high standards of transparency and integrity. These investments aim to strengthen ties between Madagascar and the United States, offering educational and training opportunities.
Panel discussions at the forum highlighted the aspirations of Atsimo Andrefana's youth, businesses, academics, and civil society members for socio-economic development—a vision shared by Ambassador Pierangelo.
She also met with partners who benefited from previous U.S. government support in governance and entrepreneurship. Additionally, she spoke with alumni of the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) program about rule of law and anti-corruption efforts.
At the forum, Ambassador Pierangelo joined Minister of Decentralization Naina Andriantsitohaina, Minister of Fisheries Paubert Mahatante, Minister of Tourism Viviane Dewa, and local authorities for discussions on regional development.