Russia has provided military equipment to Madagascar and dispatched a delegation to train the Malagasy Armed Forces in its use, according to a statement from the Presidency in Antananarivo on Wednesday.
The country has been in transition for several months, following the abrupt fall of Andry Rajoelina, who was overthrown by a popular uprising led by Generation Z. Colonel Michael Randrianirina has since been elected head of state.
The training, which began on Wednesday, covers several categories of equipment and will benefit soldiers from various units based in Antananarivo.
The Presidency reiterates that Madagascar is open to cooperation with all countries and emphasises that the majority of its military equipment has historically come from Russia.
The Kalashnikov rifle, introduced during the Soviet era and used since the Second Republic, remains the most widespread weapon in the Malagasy Armed Forces.
AC/fss/as/APA