Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has kicked off the second leg of his three-nation tour, arriving in Ethiopia from Jordan for a two-day State Visit—his first ever to this East African country. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali gave a warm welcome to PM Modi at the airport.
This visit, initiated at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy, highlights the growing importance of the relationship between India and Ethiopia.
During his time in Ethiopia, PM Modi is set to engage in extensive discussions with Abiy Ahmed. Their agenda will cover a wide range of topics including political cooperation, development efforts, trade, investment, and strengthening ties between their peoples. As representatives of the Global South, both leaders aim to reaffirm their commitment to enhancing their partnership for mutual benefit.
PM Modi will also meet with members of the Indian community and will address a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ethiopia since 2011, with the city adorned with welcome signs, posters, and Indian flags to honor him.
Ethiopia is regarded as a key partner for India in Africa and is vital to India’s objectives in the Global South. This visit is anticipated to further enrich the collaboration between the two nations.
On his departure from India, PM Modi emphasized the significance of Addis Ababa as the headquarters of the African Union. He mentioned that during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, the African Union was granted permanent membership in the G20. He expressed eagerness to discuss various matters with Prime Minister Abiy, meet with the Indian community, and present his views in Ethiopia’s parliament.
“I look forward to sharing my insights on India’s journey as the ‘Mother of Democracy’ and the advantages of the India-Ethiopia relationship for the Global South,” PM Modi stated.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has actively participated in previous Global South summits. The visit exemplifies India’s commitment to enhancing South-South cooperation and its partnership with Africa.
Prior to arriving in Ethiopia, PM Modi spent two days in Jordan, meeting King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II. He participated in the India-Jordan Business Forum and visited Jordan’s Museum. Upon landing in Amman, PM Modi was welcomed by Jordan’s Prime Minister Jafar Hassan.
Reflecting on his Jordan trip, PM Modi described it as “productive,” noting that the agreements reached would pave the way for growth and opportunity for both nations’ citizens. In a social media post, he expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II and the people of Jordan for their friendship. He added that their discussions reinforced the India-Jordan partnership in key areas like renewable energy, water management, and cultural exchange.
