Putin meets with Madagascar's President Michael Randrininina Russia and Madagascar have long-standing friendships, and are marking 55 years of diplomatic relations next year. Trade potential remains untapped, although turnover is growing positively. Humanitarian ties are expanding, with 5,000 Malagasy students educated in Russia. Putin thanked the host for granting the Russian Orthodox Church legal status in April, a major development given the 1,500+ parishioners on the islands.