PM Modi Awarded Ethiopia’s Highest Civilian Honour During State Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Ethiopia's highest civilian honor, "The Great Honor Nishan of Ethiopia," making him the first global leader to receive this distinction. Accepting the award, the Prime Minister said it was a matter of great pride for him and that he dedicated it to the friendship between India and Ethiopia. This is his first visit to Ethiopia, and he is on a two-day state visit.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome at the National Palace in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali warmly greeted him. This was followed by an important bilateral meeting between the two leaders.

During the meeting, PM Modi said he was very happy to be in Ethiopia. He said that although this was his first visit, he felt a sense of belonging as soon as he arrived.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali himself went to Addis Ababa airport to receive Prime Minister Modi. The two leaders had an informal conversation at the airport. During this time, PM Abiy Ahmed offered Prime Minister Modi traditional Ethiopian coffee.

Afterward, Abiy Ahmed Ali drove Prime Minister Modi to his hotel. On the way, he showed him the Science Museum and Friendship Park, which is considered a symbol of the friendship between the two countries.

In the bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali openly praised PM Modi's vision. He said that Prime Minister Modi always emphasizes that partnerships with Africa should be tailored to its needs.

He said that a new and stronger partnership is needed between India and Ethiopia. He also mentioned that foreign investment in Ethiopia is growing rapidly, and India has emerged as the largest investor. Currently, more than 615 Indian companies are investing in Ethiopia.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi announced a doubling of scholarships for Ethiopian students. He also thanked Ethiopia for expressing condolences over the Pahalgam terrorist attack and for supporting India in its fight against terrorism. Trade relations between India and Ethiopia began as early as the 1940s. Business ties between the two countries were established even before India gained independence. Formal trade received a new impetus after diplomatic relations were established in 1950.