Indian Prime Minister Visits Ethiopia to Strengthen Ties
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of building a strategic partnership with Ethiopia during his inaugural visit to the African nation, which is one of the continent’s most populous.
In a special address to members of parliament, Modi stated, “The Global South is writing its own destiny, and India and Ethiopia share a vision for it.” He expressed a desire for a world where development is fair, technology is accessible, and national sovereignty is respected.
During the visit, Modi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed several agreements that focus on various areas, including the training of UN peacekeepers, education, and the creation of a data center at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also committed to helping Ethiopia manage its growing international debt and address challenges related to terrorism.
On Tuesday, Modi received the “Great Honor Nishan Ethiopia,” the highest civilian award in the country, making him the first foreign leader to be honored in this way. In his remarks, he said, “We will walk together as equals, build together as partners, and succeed together as friends.”
Last year, Ethiopia joined the BRICS group of nations, which includes countries like Iran and Egypt. This move reflects its efforts to establish new partnerships following a difficult civil conflict in its northern region of Tigray. Next year, India is set to host the 18th BRICS summit.
As relations with the United States have cooled, Ethiopia is actively seeking new allies. The U.S. suspended Ethiopia’s duty-free access to its market last year, impacting Ethiopia’s economy, and recently reduced humanitarian aid.
In addition, India remains a favored destination for many Ethiopians looking for affordable health care and education, services that are often hard to find at home.
