Source TOI
ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand and “rousing” welcome during his state visit to Ethiopia on Wednesday, where he addressed a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament. Emphasizing the deep-rooted civilizational ties between the two nations, the Prime Minister remarked that the warmth of the reception made him feel “at home.”
The address marked a historic milestone, as this was the 18th international parliament addressed by PM Modi during his tenure.
A Shared Heritage and National Spirit
In a moving speech to Ethiopian lawmakers, PM Modi drew parallels between the national identities of the two countries. He noted that India’s national song, Vande Mataram, and Ethiopia’s national anthem both revere their respective lands as “the Mother,” a shared sentiment that inspires both nations to protect their heritage and culture.
“India and Ethiopia share warmth in climate as well as in spirit,” the Prime Minister said. He highlighted that the connection spans nearly two millennia, from ancient merchants trading spices and gold across the Indian Ocean to the modern era, where Indian soldiers fought alongside Ethiopians for the country’s liberation in 1941.
Key Highlights from the Address:
Democratic Journey: PM Modi expressed high respect for Ethiopia’s democratic journey, stating, “When the will of the state is in harmony with the will of the people, the wheel of progress moves forward with hope and purpose.”
Civilizational Roots: Referencing scientific findings of early human footprints in Ethiopia, he remarked, “Whether we live in Addis Ababa or Ayodhya, if our beginning was shared, then our destiny must also be shared.”
Global Solidarity: The Prime Minister recalled India’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which India supplied Ethiopia with over 4 million vaccine doses as part of its Vaccine Maitri initiative.
Strategic Partnership: Earlier in the visit, PM Modi held extensive talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, leading to the elevation of bilateral ties to a “Strategic Partnership.”
The ‘Nishan of Ethiopia’
A significant highlight of the visit was the conferral of ‘The Great Honor – Nishan of Ethiopia’ upon PM Modi by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. Accepting the award with humility on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India, PM Modi described it as a symbol of the growing friendship and brotherhood between the two nations.
The visit concluded with a cultural banquet where the echoes of Vande Mataram performed by Ethiopian singers further cemented the cultural bridge between the “Land of Lions” and India.
The Prime Minister’s visit is seen as a major step in India’s outreach to the Global South, positioning Ethiopia as a key partner in Africa for trade, technology, and security.
