PM Modi Receives Ethiopia's Highest Honour, Strengthening Strategic Partnership
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strengthened India's ties with Ethiopia, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. The two nations have elevated their relations to a strategic partnership, with Modi and his Ethiopian counterpart Abiy Ahmed Ali identifying areas of cooperation in key sectors such as economy, defence, technology, and more. This development comes during Modi's three-nation tour of East Africa, with Ethiopia being the second stop. During his visit, Modi and Ali engaged in talks at the National Palace, reflecting on the centuries-long history of contacts and trade links between the two countries. Modi hailed Ethiopia as a 'fellow traveller and partner in the Global South', highlighting their shared commitment to peace and human welfare. The Prime Minister also acknowledged Ethiopia's pivotal role in African diplomacy, hosting the African Union headquarters, which became a full member of the G20 during India's presidency in 2023. The two leaders signed several agreements, including a customs cooperation pact, a data centre deal, and a debt restructuring arrangement under the G20 common framework. India will also establish a training programme for UN peacekeeping operations and augment the capacity of a hospital in Addis Ababa. Furthermore, India will offer specialised courses in artificial intelligence under the ITEC programme. In a special ceremony, Ali conferred the Great Honor Nishan of Ethiopia on Modi, the country's highest award, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening the India-Ethiopia partnership and his visionary leadership. Modi expressed his gratitude to Ali and the Ethiopian people, dedicating the award to all Indians and Ethiopians who have nurtured bilateral ties over the centuries. The Prime Minister's visit is set to boost cooperation between the two nations and enhance their strategic partnership.
