India and Ethiopia have elevated their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first-ever visit to Ethiopia, marked by high-level talks, symbolic gestures, and major investment commitments.
Speaking to Ethiopia’s parliament on Wednesday, Modi said the upgrade followed discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and would deepen cooperation in key areas including technology, mining, green energy, and defense.
“Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed and I took a big step forward yesterday,” Modi told lawmakers. “This will unleash the potential of our economies through cooperation in technology, innovation, and green energy.”
Modi highlighted the long-standing cultural and historical connections between the two countries, noting that both India’s national song Vande Mataram and Ethiopia’s national anthem revere their homelands as “mother.” He also praised Ethiopia’s 1896 victory at the Battle of Adwa, calling it a symbol of resistance to colonialism and an inspiration for the Global South.
“Adwa remains a beacon for nations that sought dignity, sovereignty, and self-determination,” he said.
Emphasizing economic ties, Modi said Indian companies rank among Ethiopia’s leading foreign investors, with investments exceeding $5 billion across sectors such as textiles, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, creating more than 75,000 jobs.
“Indian enterprises are partners in Ethiopia’s growth story,” he said. “This partnership has opened new avenues for shared prosperity.”
During the visit, the two sides signed several memorandums of understanding, including an agreement for India to support the development of a major data center for Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Prime Minister Abiy described the visit as a turning point, writing on X that it “underscores the growing ties between our two countries” and would lead to deeper cooperation on shared priorities.
The visit also featured symbolic gestures of goodwill, including Abiy personally accompanying Modi to key sites in Addis Ababa. Modi visited the Adwa Memorial and Museum and was awarded the Grand Nishan of Ethiopia, the country’s highest honor.
The elevation of ties comes amid Ethiopia’s recent accession to the BRICS grouping and the African Union’s admission as a permanent member of the G20, a move strongly supported by India.
“The Global South is writing its own destiny,” Modi said. “We envision a future where the Global South rises together, not against anyone.”