Tourism & Partnerships: Emirates kicked off Arabian Travel Market 2026 by signing or renewing tourism deals with seven destinations, including Madagascar, aiming to boost visitor flows through joint marketing, travel packages and media familiarisation trips. UNESCO & Forest Livelihoods: UNESCO vocational training is helping communities build livelihoods while protecting Madagascar’s forests, with fish-farming support tied to conservation in sacred areas like Ala Fady. Russian Cultural Outreach: Russia’s “Russian House” network is set to expand, and in Madagascar the Russian House has opened a library and hosted literary events, while co-operation agreements are pushing Russian language courses and student links with Samara State Technical University. Military Presence on Airwaves: Africa Corps servicemen in Madagascar appeared on state radio to discuss Russian-Malagasy military and humanitarian co-operation, stressing respect for Madagascar’s independence. Church & Gender Equality: A Synod study group’s final report calls for clearer mechanisms to promote gender equality in Church workplaces, with proposals now headed for Pope Leo XIV’s review. Education Under Climate Stress: UNICEF reports climate hazards disrupted schooling for 171 million students worldwide in 2025, with storms and floods among the biggest drivers.