Addis Ababa - Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial welcome at the Ethiopian National Palace today, marking the beginning of his historic state visit to Ethiopia. The visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 15 years, underscores the strengthening ties between India and Ethiopia and signals India's growing engagement with the African continent.
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, PM Modi was warmly greeted by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali at the airport. In a special gesture of friendship, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali personally drove PM Modi to his hotel. This personal touch highlights the importance Ethiopia places on its relationship with India as partners in the Global South. Shortly after, both leaders engaged in informal discussions, setting the stage for more formal talks scheduled for Wednesday.
The ceremonial welcome at the National Palace included a guard of honor and other traditional performances, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural connections between the two nations. The atmosphere was vibrant, with cultural performances showcasing Ethiopia's rich heritage, further emphasizing the significance of this visit.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold extensive discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali on various aspects of bilateral relations. Key areas of focus include investments, agriculture, mining, digital public infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Given that agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for 80% of Ethiopians, it will be a central point of discussion. India is also planning to launch several projects in Ethiopia under the International Solar Alliance, focusing on solar rooftops, regional solar connectivity, off-grid solutions, and solar pumps to expand energy access and support anti-poverty initiatives.
In addition to bilateral talks, PM Modi will address a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament, where he is expected to share his insights on India's democratic journey as the "Mother of Democracy" and discuss the potential of the India-Ethiopia partnership in contributing to the Global South.
The Prime Minister is also scheduled to meet with the Indian diaspora in Ethiopia, which numbers around 2,500. This interaction will provide an opportunity to acknowledge their role in strengthening bilateral ties and to participate in cultural events organized in his honor.
This visit reaffirms the shared commitment of India and Ethiopia to advance their close ties of friendship and bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the visit underscores the importance of the two nations as partners in the Global South. Both leaders previously met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Johannesburg in 2023, where they discussed strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, defense, information technology, agriculture, youth skills development, and people-to-people exchanges.
Ahead of the visit, India's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Anil Kumar Rai, described the trip as a "very historic moment" that will strengthen bilateral cooperation and deepen coordination on international issues, including UN reforms and BRICS agendas. He emphasized the long-standing and friendly relationship between the two countries, noting that this visit has a significant agenda that will enhance cooperation at the bilateral level.
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Ethiopia is part of a broader three-nation tour that includes Jordan and Oman. This tour highlights India's commitment to strengthening its relationships with key partners in West Asia and Africa.
