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Ethiopia and India Elevate Bilateral Ties to Strategic Partnership as PM Modi Visits Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa — Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Tuesday hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for high-level talks that culminated in the elevation of Ethiopia–India relations to a strategic partnership, marking a significant step in deepening political, economic, and security cooperation between the two countries.
Following bilateral discussions at the National Palace, Prime Minister Abiy announced that the decision reflects the depth of historical ties and a shared vision for a modern partnership grounded in sovereignty, equality, and practical cooperation. He emphasized that Ethiopia values India’s long-standing approach to South–South cooperation, which prioritizes African-led development, national capacity building, and mutual respect.
The two leaders presided over the signing and exchange of key agreements, including cooperation in customs administration, collaboration in United Nations peacekeeping operations, and a memorandum of understanding to establish a data center within Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The data center initiative is expected to strengthen institutional capacity and digital infrastructure in Ethiopia’s diplomatic services.
In a historic gesture, Ethiopia conferred its highest civilian honour the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia on Prime Minister Modi, making him the first global head of state or government to receive the award. The Prime Minister’s Office described the occasion as “a night of diplomacy and grandeur,” marked by a state banquet held at the Addis International Convention Center.
Prime Minister Abiy highlighted the centuries-old connections between Ethiopia and India through trade, education, culture, and diplomacy, noting that these ties now provide a strong foundation for expanded cooperation. He also pointed to Ethiopia’s economic trajectory, citing 9.2 percent growth last year and a projected 10.3 percent growth this year, alongside rising foreign direct investment. India, he said, remains one of Ethiopia’s leading investment partners, with more than 615 Indian companies currently operating in the country.
Prime Minister Modi welcomed the elevation of ties, saying the strategic partnership would inject new momentum and depth into bilateral relations. Describing Ethiopia and India as democratic partners committed to peace, development, and human welfare, he underscored Ethiopia’s role as a hub of African diplomacy as host of the African Union headquarters. He recalled India’s support for the African Union’s admission to the G20 in 2023 and announced that India will double scholarships for Ethiopian students.
The leaders discussed expanding cooperation across priority sectors, including the economy, innovation, technology, defense, capacity building, and multilateral engagement. The visit followed a grand welcoming ceremony and underscored Ethiopia’s broader strategy of forging strategic partnerships to advance national development while strengthening regional and global cooperation.
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