Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Addis Ababa on his first-ever official visit to Ethiopia, marking a historic milestone in India–Ethiopia relations and underscoring New Delhi’s growing engagement with Africa and the Global South.
Prime Minister Modi was personally received at Bole International Airport by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, a gesture reflecting the warmth of bilateral ties. In a post on X, Modi described Ethiopia as a country with a “great history and vibrant culture,” noting the deep civilisational links shared by the two nations.
“Thank you, Ethiopia, for a welcome that was unforgettable. The Indian community showed remarkable warmth and affection,” Modi wrote, adding that the friendship between the two countries would grow “even more robust in the times to come.”
A highlight of the visit was the conferment of Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, on Prime Minister Modi by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in recognition of his role in strengthening India–Ethiopia relations and his global leadership. Following the award, Modi paid tribute to Ethiopian bravehearts at the Adwa Victory Memorial in Addis Ababa.
“To be honoured by one of the world’s most ancient and rich civilisations is a matter of immense pride,” Modi said. “This honour belongs to the countless Indians who have shaped and strengthened our partnership over the years.”
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the visit delivered significant outcomes, including the elevation of bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership. Several agreements and memoranda of understanding were signed, covering cooperation in customs administration, United Nations peacekeeping training, and the establishment of a data centre at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
India and Ethiopia also agreed on debt restructuring under the G20 Common Framework, while educational and capacity-building cooperation was expanded. India will double scholarships for Ethiopian students under the ICCR programme, offer specialised short-term courses in Artificial Intelligence through the ITEC initiative, and support the upgrading of Mahatma Gandhi Hospital in Addis Ababa, particularly in maternal and neonatal healthcare.
Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to address the Ethiopian Parliament, a move seen as reinforcing political dialogue and long-term cooperation.
India reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Ethiopia to address global challenges and unlock new opportunities for shared growth, as both countries seek to build on the outcomes of what has been described as a landmark and historic visit.
