Earlier today in Addis Ababa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood before a joint session of Ethiopia's parliament, marking a rare honor during his first visit to the East African nation. Lawmakers greeted him with a standing ovation as he highlighted areas—trade and investment, inclusive development, accessible technology and global peace—where India and Ethiopia can write the next chapter of cooperation.
'It is a moment of great privilege for me,' Modi said. 'I feel honoured to be here in the temple of democracy, in the heart of a nation with ancient wisdom and modern aspirations.' He framed the visit around a newly elevated strategic partnership, a status that promises 'new energy, new impetus and new depth' to bilateral ties.
Among the announcements, India will double scholarships for Ethiopian students keen on studying in India, a move designed to foster the next generation of changemakers and strengthen people-to-people connections. Both nations, unified by their membership in the BRICS group of emerging economies, have set their sights on deepening collaboration in technology, defense and sustainable development.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed the partnership, calling it rooted in 'equality and South-South solidarity' and focused on sovereignty, self-reliance and practical collaboration. Talks earlier this week also explored ways to boost economic ties and technology transfer, reflecting a mutual drive toward inclusive growth.
Modi's Ethiopia visit concludes today; he is expected to travel on to Oman next, according to India's foreign ministry, as part of a broader tour aimed at strengthening India's ties across the Global South.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
