ADDIS ABABA – In a landmark visit to the Ethiopian capital, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament, signaling a new era of cooperation between the two nations. The visit, characterized by deep cultural symbolism and strategic expansion, marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has addressed the body.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A Shared Heritage: The ‘Land of Lions’
PM Modi opened his address by drawing a unique parallel between the two nations’ natural heritage. Referring to Ethiopia as the “Land of Lions,” he noted a personal connection to the host nation:
“I feel very much at home here because my home state of Gujarat in India is also the home of the Asiatic lion. Our bond is not just diplomatic; it is rooted in the very soil of our nations.”
Key Diplomatic & Strategic Outcomes
The visit moved beyond rhetoric with several high-level announcements and honors:
- Strategic Partnership: The bilateral relationship was officially elevated to a Strategic Partnership, focusing on defense, digital technology, and economic security.
- Highest Civilian Honor: PM Modi was conferred with the ‘Grand Honor Nishan of Ethiopia’ by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, the highest distinction the nation bestows upon foreign dignitaries.
- Security Solidarity: The Prime Minister expressed profound gratitude to the Ethiopian government for its unwavering support and solidarity following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025.
Economic and Developmental Roadmap
The Prime Minister outlined a vision for shared prosperity through several key initiatives:
- Africa Steel Multiplier Initiative: A new framework to boost industrialization and infrastructure across the continent using Indian technical expertise.
- Digital & Health Cooperation: New agreements were reached to share India’s “Digital Public Infrastructure” (DPI) and expand healthcare accessibility through tele-medicine.
- Global South Advocacy: PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to being a voice for the Global South, emphasizing that the rise of Africa is central to a more just and democratic world order.
Comparison of Key Areas of Cooperation
| Sector | Focus Area |
| Technology | Implementation of digital payment systems and e-governance. |
| Industry | Steel manufacturing and the ‘Africa Steel Multiplier’ project. |
| Education | Skill development and vocational training for Ethiopian youth. |
| Diplomacy | Reform of the UN Security Council and Global South representation. |
