PM Modi calls Ethiopia honour a tribute to India–Ethiopia partnership, Global South solidarity

Addis Ababa, December 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the conferment of Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, was a tribute not just to him but to the enduring partnership between India and Ethiopia, rooted in history, trust and people-to-people ties.

Addressing a gathering after receiving the award, the Prime Minister said being honoured by one of the world’s most ancient civilisations was a moment of pride for India and accepted the recognition with humility on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.

“This honour belongs to the countless Indians who have shaped our partnership — from Gujarati traders who supported Ethiopia during the struggle of 1896, to Indian soldiers who fought for its liberation, and teachers and industrialists who contributed through education and investment,” he said. He added that the recognition also belongs to Ethiopian citizens who placed trust in India and strengthened the relationship over decades.

The prime minister expressed gratitude to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, recalling their meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in South Africa last month and the warm invitation that led to his visit. He said the affection between the two leaders enabled the visit to take place within 24 days, outside conventional diplomatic timelines.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s role in the Global South, Modi said the country’s tradition of dignity, independence and self-respect serves as an inspiration at a time when global attention is increasingly focused on developing nations. He praised Abiy’s leadership and his philosophy of “Medemer,” citing Ethiopia’s efforts in inclusive development, environmental conservation and strengthening unity in a diverse society.

Referring to India’s civilisational belief that knowledge is liberating, the prime minister underlined the central role of education in nation-building and said Indian teachers have made the single largest contribution to India–Ethiopia relations. He noted that Indian educators have helped shape generations in Ethiopia and continue to serve in universities and higher education institutions across the country.

Looking ahead, Modi said the future belongs to partnerships built on vision and trust, adding that India and Ethiopia are committed to expanding cooperation that addresses global challenges while creating new opportunities.

He concluded by conveying warm wishes to the people of Ethiopia on behalf of the people of India, reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties.

Amit Shah congratulates PM Modi on receiving Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour

Union home minister and minister of cooperation Amit Shah on Tuesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on being conferred Ethiopia’s highest civilian award, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, calling it a moment of pride for every Indian.

In a post on social media platform X, Shah said the honour reflects India’s growing stature in global diplomacy under Modi’s leadership and marks a significant milestone in India–Ethiopia relations.

“It is the 28th accolade to the prime minister’s statesmanship by a foreign nation, signifying Bharat’s rising stature in global diplomacy,” Shah said, adding that the recognition will remain a lasting symbol of friendship between India and Ethiopia.

The award adds to a series of international honours received by the prime minister in recent years, highlighting India’s expanding global engagement and strategic partnerships.