This week, India and Ethiopia upgraded their longstanding relationship to a strategic partnership, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali had in-depth discussions on various topics of mutual interest and concern.

Modi, who came to Ethiopia from Jordan on his first official visit, received a formal welcome at the National Palace before the bilateral discussions, showcasing the strong historical ties and bright future of the India-Ethiopia relationship.

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Modi mentioned that India and Ethiopia have a long history of communication, discussion, and interaction. He also highlighted that both nations, with their diverse languages and traditions, represent unity in diversity.

The two parties entered into eight MoUs/agreements, which included elevating relations to a 'Strategic Partnership', collaboration on customs matters, setting up a data center at the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry, cooperation on UN Peacekeeping training, restructuring of debt under G20, providing additional ICCR scholarships and AI short courses for Ethiopians, as well as assistance for maternal and neonatal healthcare.

Modi said the African Union's headquarters in Ethiopia makes the country a meeting point of African diplomacy. "Inspired by the common vision of an inclusive world, in 2023, India ensured that the African Union became a G20 member," he said.

During India's G20 Presidency in 2023, the African Union became a permanent member of the G20. During his inaugural visit, Modi expressed a strong feeling of kinship and affection, highlighting the longstanding historical ties between the two nations.

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The Prime Minister, Ali, mentioned that the two nations have a long history of connection through various means such as trade, diplomacy, education, culture, and even in their food and traditions.

 

"We also appreciate your consistent message that Africa's priorities must lead the partnership. These kinds of dignified, respectful messages for Africa are very important. Mr Prime Minister, keep pushing. That is the type of message we are expecting from all our trusted friends," Ali says.

"Today, we meet with a clear focus to shape a modern partnership, grounded in sovereignty, self-reliance and practical cooperation. Our cooperation is rooted in equality and South-South solidarity," he says.

"Our economy is performing strongly. Last year, we grew 9.2 per cent and this year we are expecting 10.3 per cent GDP growth. Besides GDP growth, our FDI inflow is also rising big time. India is the leading source for our FDI," he says.

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"We have more than 615 Indian companies which are investing in Ethiopia. This all gives our cooperation a strong foundation of trust. I think our decision today that we elevate our historic relationship to a strategic relationship is the right decision," he adds.

Ethiopia honored Prime Minister Modi by presenting him with its highest award, The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia. He is the first international leader to receive this prestigious award. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi visited Friendship Park and Friendship Square in Addis Ababa along with Prime Minister Ali. Earlier, the Ethiopian Prime Minister greeted PM Modi warmly at the airport and gave him a colorful welcome. Unexpectedly, he decided to bring PM Modi to the Science Museum and Friendship Park, even though it was not originally planned.