In a significant diplomatic move, India and Ethiopia have elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. This milestone was achieved during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first official visit to the African nation, where he held extensive talks with his Ethiopian counterpart, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.
A Historic Upgrade in Bilateral Relations
The upgrade to a strategic partnership marks a new chapter in the long-standing ties between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi declared that this step would inject new energy, momentum, and depth into the relationship, with a clear roadmap to be prepared to unlock the full potential of their cooperation. He emphasized the shared democratic values and commitment to peace and human welfare that bind the two countries, describing them as fellow travellers of the Global South.
During the visit, the two leaders oversaw the signing of seven key agreements, covering various sectors of mutual interest. In a special gesture reflecting the warmth of the relationship, Prime Minister Modi was conferred Ethiopia's highest state honour, the 'Great Honor Nishan of Ethiopia'.
Strengthening Multifaceted Cooperation
The bilateral discussions between PM Modi and PM Abiy Ahmed were comprehensive. The leaders reviewed key dimensions of cooperation including the economy, innovation, technology, defense, health, and capacity building. A notable outcome was India's decision to double the number of student scholarships for Ethiopian students pursuing education in India, a move aimed at bolstering people-to-people ties and capacity development.
Prime Minister Modi also expressed gratitude for Ethiopia's condolences and support following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, underscoring a shared commitment in the fight against terrorism. The Indian government highlighted the historical and people-centric nature of the relationship, noting that the special welcome for Modi—where PM Abiy Ahmed personally drove him from the airport—reflected the importance both nations attach to their partnership as leaders of the Global South.
Preceding Engagement in Jordan
Prior to his Ethiopia visit, Prime Minister Modi concluded a two-day visit to Jordan, which he described as "immensely productive." His talks with King Abdullah II focused on strengthening the partnership across several critical areas.
During the Jordan leg, five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between India and Jordan. These agreements spanned diverse fields such as:
- Renewable energy cooperation
- Water resource management
- Cultural exchange programs
- Digital solutions
- Twinning of the UNESCO heritage sites of Petra and Ellora
On social media platform X, PM Modi stated that the discussions had solidified the India-Jordan partnership and that the outcomes would open new avenues for progress and prosperity for the citizens of both countries.
This dual-nation tour underscores India's focused diplomatic outreach to key partners in West Asia and Africa, reinforcing economic and strategic linkages while emphasizing shared Global South solidarity.
