Addis Ababa | December 17,2025 | SKY LINK TIMES
India-Ethiopia Ties Enter Strategic Era:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday highlighted the deep-rooted civilisational, cultural and strategic ties between India and Ethiopia, announcing that both nations have agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. Addressing a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament in Addis Ababa, PM Modi said India and Ethiopia share “warmth in climate as well as in spirit,” reflecting centuries-old bonds that continue to grow stronger.
Table of Contents
Ancient Civilisational Links Across the Indian Ocean
Recalling nearly 2,000 years of historical connections, PM Modi said ancient merchants from India and Ethiopia crossed the Indian Ocean trading spices, cotton, coffee and gold, while also exchanging ideas, stories and ways of life. Ports such as Adulis and Dholera, he noted, were not just trade hubs but bridges between two great civilisations.
Role of Indian Teachers and Shared Modern History
The Prime Minister also highlighted the contribution of thousands of Indian teachers who played a significant role in Ethiopia’s educational development even before formal diplomatic ties were established. From Addis Ababa to smaller towns, Indian educators became part of Ethiopian society, shaping generations of students.
In modern history, PM Modi recalled that Indian soldiers fought alongside Ethiopians during the liberation of Ethiopia in 1941, and that formal diplomatic relations began soon after India’s independence.
Democracy, Constitutions and Shared Values
Describing both countries as vibrant and diverse democracies, PM Modi said democracy in India and Ethiopia is a way of life, guided by debate, disagreement and faith in the rule of law. Drawing parallels between the constitutions of the two nations, he said both emphasise the power and will of the people.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister laid a wreath at the Adwa Victory Monument, calling it a timeless symbol of dignity, freedom and inspiration for colonised nations.
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Strategic Partnership and Economic Cooperation
Announcing a major diplomatic milestone, PM Modi said he and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali have decided to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. This move will expand cooperation in technology, innovation, mining, sustainability and clean energy, while also strengthening food security, health security and capacity building.
Indian companies are among the largest foreign investors in Ethiopia, with over USD 5 billion invested across textiles, manufacturing, agriculture and healthcare, creating more than 75,000 local jobs.
COVID Support and Agriculture Cooperation
PM Modi also recalled India’s role during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it supplied medicines and vaccines to more than 150 countries, including over 4 million vaccine doses to Ethiopia.
Emphasising agriculture as the backbone of both economies, he said India and Ethiopia can work together on climate-resilient farming, improved seeds, irrigation systems, millet research, dairy development and food processing to support farmers amid climate change challenges.
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