Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Addis Ababa on Tuesday on his first bilateral visit to Ethiopia, marking a significant milestone in India–Ethiopia relations and underscoring a shared vision rooted in history, mutual respect and forward-looking cooperation.
In a rare and symbolic gesture, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali personally received Prime Minister Modi at Bole International Airport, extending a warm and colorful welcome that reflected the importance both nations attach to their partnership.
Prime Minister Abiy further highlighted the closeness of ties by personally driving his Indian counterpart to the hotel, making unscheduled stops at the Addis Ababa Science Museum and Friendship Park.
The visit — the first by an Indian prime minister to Ethiopia in 15 years — comes at a pivotal time as both countries seek to deepen collaboration as key partners in the Global South.
India and Ethiopia share longstanding civilizational links and strong people-to-people ties, which continue to underpin their expanding strategic relationship.
During his two-day stay, Prime Minister Modi is expected to address a joint session of Ethiopia’s Parliament and hold wide-ranging bilateral talks with Prime Minister Abiy.
Discussions will focus on boosting investment, strengthening cybersecurity cooperation, and expanding economic ties, alongside coordination on regional and global issues, including United Nations reforms and BRICS-related agendas.
Officials described the visit as a “historic moment” aimed at elevating bilateral relations across multiple sectors. Agriculture—central to the livelihoods of nearly 80 percent of Ethiopians—is expected to feature prominently, along with education, health, defence and technology cooperation.
India is also set to launch several initiatives under the International Solar Alliance, including rooftop solar systems, off-grid solutions, regional solar connectivity and solar-powered irrigation pumps, supporting Ethiopia’s energy access goals and poverty reduction efforts.
As part of the visit, Prime Minister Modi will also engage with members of the Indian diaspora in Ethiopia, reaffirming India’s commitment to its overseas community and to strengthening people-to-people bonds.
The Addis Ababa visit signals a renewed momentum in India–Ethiopia ties, positioning both nations as partners in sustainable growth, development and global collaboration.
