Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Personally Welcomes PM Modi on Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Ethiopia on March 5, 2024, for the second leg of his three-nation tour, focused on enhancing bilateral relations. He was warmly welcomed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali at the Addis Ababa International Airport. In a notable display of hospitality, PM Abiy personally drove his Indian counterpart to the hotel, making stops at the Science Museum and Friendship Park, which were not included in the official schedule.

During their drive, the two leaders engaged in informal discussions, including a conversation about the diverse varieties of Ethiopian coffee. Sources noted that the Nobel Peace Prize laureate’s gestures highlighted a deep respect for PM Modi and the longstanding ties between their nations. The Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared on social media, “Celebrating age-old India-Ethiopia ties! Prime Minister @narendramodi arrives in Addis Ababa on his maiden bilateral visit to Ethiopia. In a special gesture, PM @AbiyAhmedAli came to personally receive him at the airport. Prime Minister was accorded a warm and colourful welcome.” He further emphasized Ethiopia’s significance as a key partner for India in the Global South and as a fellow BRICS member.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Throughout this visit, PM Modi is expected to participate in extensive discussions with PM Abiy concerning various aspects of India-Ethiopia relations. The Indian Prime Minister’s visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their friendship and cooperation. A statement from the Ministry of External Affairs prior to his departure indicated, “As partners in the Global South, the visit will be a reiteration of the shared commitment of the two nations to advance close ties of friendship and bilateral cooperation.”

In addition to his discussions with PM Abiy, PM Modi plans to address a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament. He will share insights on India’s journey as the “Mother of Democracy” and emphasize the importance of the India-Ethiopia partnership for the Global South. During his two-day visit, he will also meet with the Indian diaspora residing in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa holds additional significance as it is the headquarters of the African Union, which was granted permanent membership in the G20 during India’s presidency in 2023.

Previous Engagements and Next Steps

Before arriving in Ethiopia, PM Modi visited Jordan, where he met with King Abdullah II at the Husseiniya Palace. Their discussions included a range of topics, culminating in the signing of multiple memorandums of understanding covering culture, renewable energy, water management, and digital public infrastructure. This visit also included a twinning arrangement between the historic sites of Petra and Ellora, aimed at enhancing bilateral ties.

Following his engagements in Ethiopia, PM Modi will continue his tour with a visit to Oman, marking the final leg of his international journey. This series of visits reflects India’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong relationships with nations in the Global South, reinforcing its role as a key player on the global stage.