Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced a two-day state visit to Ethiopia on December 16, 2025, at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. This marks the second leg of his three-nation tour, with prior engagements in Jordan and a subsequent visit to Oman planned. This is Prime Minister Modi's first visit to Ethiopia, underscoring the growing strategic importance of the relations between India and Ethiopia.
The visit aims to deepen the partnership between India and Africa, with Ethiopia recognized as a crucial and dependable ally for India within Africa and the broader Global South. Addis Ababa is adorned with welcome signs, posters, and Indian flags, demonstrating the city's enthusiasm in hosting the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 2011.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold extensive discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, encompassing various facets of the bilateral relationship. These discussions will include political engagement, development cooperation, trade, investment, and strengthened people-to-people connections. Both leaders are anticipated to reaffirm their dedication to strengthening friendship and expanding cooperation for mutual benefit as partners in the Global South.
The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the visit demonstrates India's consistent emphasis on strengthening South-South cooperation and deepening its engagement with Africa. Prior to his departure, Prime Minister Modi emphasized Addis Ababa's significance as the headquarters of the African Union, recalling that the African Union was admitted as a permanent member of the G20 during India's presidency in 2023. He expressed his anticipation for in-depth discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and interactions with other leaders.
The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) India released a statement noting that the Addis Ababa stop is a crucial part of his three-nation diplomatic tour, aimed at boosting India's engagements in West Asia and Africa. The tour commenced with a visit to Jordan on December 15th to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, where PM Modi held talks with King Abdullah II. Following the Ethiopia visit, the Prime Minister will conclude his tour with a visit to the Sultanate of Oman, reinforcing the Strategic Partnership and celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
This visit presents an opportunity for both nations to comprehensively review their bilateral partnership, including trade, investment, energy, defense, security, technology, agriculture, and culture. Additionally, they will exchange views on regional and global matters of mutual interest. The visit is viewed as a reaffirmation of India's commitment to expanding cooperation and strategic alignment with key partners on the African continent.
