Capital city: Antananarivo Region: Africa Area: 587 040 km² Population: 16 473 477 Main cities: Toamasina, Majunga, Fianarantsoa, Antsirabé, Toliara, Antsiranana Currency: Madagascar ariary Dial code: 261 Internet code: MA Information: The Republic of Madagascar is an island located in the western part of the Indian Ocean, separated from near Africa by the Mozambique Channel. In 1960, Madagascar theoretically achieved its independence, but remains under a strong French influence in all areas, especially on the political and economical areas. Just like in colonial times, its currency remained the Malagasy franc (FMG), and was long linked to the CFA franc used in former French colonies in Africa. |