On January 18, 2007, Madagascan President Marc Ravalomanana met in his Presidential Palace with visiting representative of the Chinese government and Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Zhai Jun, who is here for the inauguration ceremony of Ravalomanana.

Zhai first conveyed cordial greetings and warm congratulations from Chinese President Hu Jintao on Ravalomanana's re-election as president.  Zhai briefly reviewed bilateral ties, saying that China-Madagascar relations have been developing steadily and cooperation has been fruitful in all fields since the two countries established diplomatic relations 35 years ago. He said the two countries have also supported and cooperated with each other in international affairs. Zhai appreciated and thanked the government of Madagascar for its adherence to the one-China policy and support for China on such issues as human rights and the election of the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). China is ready to work with Madagascar to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and strengthen cooperation with Madagascar in the areas of infrastructure, minerals, agriculture and human resources development to further promote their friendly cooperative relations, Zhai added. Zhai made positive comments on Ravalomanana's achievements in leading the Madagascan government and its people to seek economic and social progress. He wished the Madagascan people to work together to earnestly carry out their plan of action and push the national development process to a new stage.

Ravalomanana thanked the Chinese government for dispatching its representative to his inauguration ceremony and spoke highly of its assistance over the years. He hoped that both sides will further strengthen cooperation in energy and infrastructure. On the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Ravalomanana said it is an important and successful event, providing a good opportunity for exchanges between China and African countries. He appreciated the eight new measures aimed at offering assistance to Africa announced by President Hu Jintao at the summit and expected and believed the Madagascan side would benefit from them. 

On the same day, Zhai also held talks with Madagascan Foreign Minister Marcel Ranjeva. Both sides exchanged views on furthering bilateral ties and signed several documents including the agreement on economic and technological cooperation on behalf of their respective governments.

On January 19, Zhai attended the inauguration ceremony of President Ravalomanana.