Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ethiopia has marked a major step forward in India–Ethiopia relations, with both countries agreeing to elevate their bilateral ties to a ‘Strategic Partnership’. The visit, described as historic, resulted in several key agreements in economic cooperation, education, healthcare, digital infrastructure, and peacekeeping. This development signals a new phase in the long-standing relationship between the two nations and reflects their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors.

Among the agreements signed was an Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters, aimed at improving trade facilitation and cooperation between customs authorities of both countries. An MoU was also signed for establishing a Data Centre at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, highlighting India’s role in supporting Ethiopia’s digital infrastructure and governance capabilities.

In addition, an Implementing Arrangement for Cooperation in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations Training was agreed upon. This reflects the shared interest of India and Ethiopia in contributing to global peace and security through UN peacekeeping missions.

Another major agreement was the MoU on Debt Restructuring for Ethiopia under the G20 Common Framework, which demonstrates India’s support for Ethiopia in addressing economic and financial challenges through multilateral cooperation.

Education and capacity building emerged as key focus areas during the visit. Both sides agreed to double the number of scholarships offered to Ethiopian students under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarship programme. This move is expected to strengthen academic and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Additionally, India will provide specialised short-term courses in Artificial Intelligence to Ethiopian students and professionals under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. These initiatives aim to enhance skills, technological knowledge, and human resource development in Ethiopia.

Healthcare cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions. India is committed to supporting the upgrade of Mahatma Gandhi Hospital in Addis Ababa, with a particular focus on improving maternal and neonatal care. This initiative reflects India’s continued engagement in strengthening healthcare infrastructure and services in Ethiopia.

The agreements reached during the visit highlight the expanding scope of cooperation between the two nations across sectors such as health, education, technology, and economic development.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’, the country’s highest civilian award. The honour was presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in recognition of PM Modi’s exceptional contribution to strengthening India–Ethiopia relations and for his visionary leadership.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the honour as a reflection of the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. In a post on X, MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “An honour commemorating the deep India-Ethiopia civilisational ties. PM Narendra Modi was bestowed with the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’, the country’s highest award by H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, for his exceptional contribution to strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Ethiopia and for his visionary leadership.”

Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India and to the long-standing friendship between the two countries. According to the MEA, “Prime Minister dedicated the honour to the 1.4 bn people of India, and to the historic bond and friendship between India and Ethiopia. Prime Minister expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and the people of Ethiopia for the accolade.”

This award marks the 28th top foreign State honour conferred upon PM Modi, reflecting the global recognition of his leadership and diplomatic engagement.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the warmth and affection shown by the Ethiopian leadership and people, stating that it played a crucial role in facilitating the visit. He emphasised that the strong personal bond with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali helped bypass lengthy diplomatic processes.

Recalling the invitation extended by the Ethiopian Prime Minister during their meeting at the G20 Summit in South Africa last month, PM Modi said, “How could I refuse this affectionate invitation from my friend, my brother? Therefore, as soon as I got the first opportunity, I decided to come to Ethiopia. Friends, if this visit had followed normal diplomatic procedures, it would probably have taken a long time. But it is this love and affection of yours that brought me here in just 24 days.”

The visit marks Prime Minister Modi’s first-ever visit to Ethiopia, underlining the growing strategic importance of the relationship between the two countries.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Ethiopia on Tuesday for a two-day visit and was accorded a warm welcome at the airport. As a special gesture, President Abiy drove PM Modi to Ethiopian Science Museum.

Overall, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ethiopia has laid the groundwork for a deeper and more comprehensive partnership. The elevation of ties to a Strategic Partnership, along with agreements in customs cooperation, digital infrastructure, peacekeeping, education, healthcare, and economic restructuring, highlights the expanding scope of India–Ethiopia relations. The visit not only reinforces diplomatic ties but also strengthens people-to-people connections, reflecting the shared vision of both nations for cooperation, development, and global engagement in the years ahead.