Prime Minister Narendra Modi experienced a profoundly emotional moment during his state visit to Ethiopia when a group of local singers performed a rendition of India's national song, Vande Mataram, at an official banquet. The event, held on Wednesday in Addis Ababa, was hosted by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in honour of the visiting Indian leader.
A Special Tribute on a Historic Anniversary
Prime Minister Modi described the performance as a "wonderful rendition" and a "deeply moving moment." In a post on social media platform X, he highlighted the special significance of the tribute, noting it came at a time when India is commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram. The Prime Minister shared a video from the banquet, capturing the unique cross-cultural homage paid by the Ethiopian artists.
Warm Welcome and Packed Itinerary in Ethiopia
PM Modi's two-day visit to Ethiopia, which began on Tuesday, has been marked by exceptional gestures of friendship. In a rare protocol departure underscoring close bilateral ties, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed personally received Modi at the airport and drove him to his hotel. The Ethiopian leader also took his guest on an unscheduled tour of the Science Museum and Friendship Park.
Earlier on Wednesday, PM Modi paid his respects at the Adwa Victory Memorial by laying a wreath. His official schedule also included addressing a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament and an expected interaction with the vibrant Indian diaspora community in the country.
Strengthening Ties Between Ancient Civilisations
Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi expressed honour at the warm welcome and spoke of Ethiopia's rich history and culture. He emphasised the deep civilisational links connecting the two nations and conveyed his eagerness to work with Ethiopian leadership to enhance cooperation across various sectors. This visit aims to reaffirm the shared commitment of India and Ethiopia, as partners in the Global South, to expand their longstanding friendship and bilateral collaboration.
The Ethiopia leg follows what PM Modi termed an "immensely productive" visit to Jordan. Concluding his multi-nation tour, the Prime Minister will travel to Oman from December 17 to 18 at the invitation of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, focusing on the strategic partnership rooted in historic ties and strong people-to-people connections between India and Oman.
