Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a historic visit to Ethiopia, the first by an Indian leader in over a decade, marked by cultural exchanges and strengthened bilateral ties.
Emotional Tribute with ‘Vande Mataram’
The visit turned emotional when local Ethiopian singers performed a moving rendition of India’s national song, ‘Vande Mataram’, at a banquet hosted by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. The performance, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the anthem, deeply touched Modi, who shared a video on social media describing the moment as “deeply moving.”
Warm Welcome and Symbolic Gestures
PM Abiy Ahmed demonstrated the closeness of Indo-Ethiopian ties by personally accompanying Modi to the airport and joining him at the Science Museum and Friendship Park. The gestures highlighted the personal rapport between the two leaders and the friendly relations between their countries.
Strategic Partnership and Honours
During the visit, Modi was awarded Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, ‘The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’, in recognition of his contributions to bilateral relations. Both nations elevated their partnership to a strategic level and signed multiple MoUs in trade, technology, and peacekeeping.
Future Collaborations
Modi extended an invitation to PM Abiy to participate in India’s AI Impact Summit and the 2026 BRICS Summit, reflecting their shared vision for the Global South and commitment to collaborative development initiatives.
Cultural Diplomacy Strengthens People-to-People Ties
Cultural programs, including Hindi Bollywood performances, underscored the strong people-to-people connections between India and Ethiopia. The visit left a lasting impression on Indo-Ethiopian relations, highlighting the blend of diplomacy, culture, and strategic cooperation.