ANTANANARIVO, June 26 (Xinhua) -- Madagascar celebrated Friday the 60th anniversary of its independence day with several restrictions due to concerns over COVID-19.

Hosted by Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina, the celebration of this year was led by a military parade in front of the city hall, located in Antananarivo city center, with the theme "Madagascar, my homeland, my life, my heritage".

Only 250 invitees, including heads of institutions, diplomatic missions, ethnic groups, and five ministers, were allowed to attend the military parade which was prohibited to the public.

However, the government invited the public to follow the celebration by television at home.

Before the beginning of the military parade, Andry Rajoelina inspected the troops on the Cadillac used by the first president who led Madagascar after the independence, Philibert Tsiranana.

3,120 soldiers, 150 cars, eight planes and 90 motorcycles participated in the military parade, commanded by General William Andriamasimanana.

The parade was also distinguished by the participation of the COVID-19 special intervention brigade, which led the fight against COVID-19 in Madagascar.

During his national address, Madagascar's president sent his best wishes to all Malagasy people.

"The fight we are doing now is the fight against poverty, the fight against distortion between Malagasy people," Rajoelina said.

Madagascar got its independence from France on June 26, 1960. Enditem

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