Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed gratitude to the people and government of Ethiopia after being conferred with the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, calling it a matter of immense pride and a recognition of the enduring ties between the two nations.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi thanked Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and said it was an honour to be recognised by one of the world’s most ancient and rich civilisations. He said the award belonged to the countless Indians who have contributed over the years to strengthening the partnership between India and Ethiopia.
“Grateful to the people and Government of Ethiopia, as well as Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, for conferring upon me the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’ last evening. To be honoured by one of the world’s most ancient and rich civilisations is a matter of immense pride. This honour belongs to the countless Indians who have shaped and strengthened our partnership over the years,” the Prime Minister wrote.
Prime Minister Modi also reiterated that India remains committed to further strengthening bilateral ties with Ethiopia to address evolving global challenges and create new opportunities for cooperation.
“India remains committed to further cementing cooperation with Ethiopia to address evolving global challenges and to create new opportunities,” he added.
Earlier on Tuesday, Ethiopia conferred its highest civilian honour on Prime Minister Modi, making him the first global Head of State or Head of Government to receive the prestigious award. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali personally bestowed the honour.
The award marks the 28th top foreign state honour conferred on Prime Minister Modi.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ethiopia has elevated bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, marking a significant milestone in India–Ethiopia ties. The visit resulted in several key outcomes, including agreements on customised cooperation, the establishment of a data centre, and collaboration in UN peacekeeping training.
India and Ethiopia also signed a Memorandum of Understanding on debt restructuring under the G20 Common Framework, reflecting cooperation on economic issues. Educational exchanges were strengthened with the doubling of ICCR scholarships for Ethiopian students and the introduction of specialised AI courses under the ITEC programme. (Agencies)
