Addis Ababa, Dec 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed the Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament, becoming the first Indian leader to do so and marking the 18th parliament globally where he has delivered a speech. The address took place on the second day of his two day official visit to Ethiopia.
During his address, PM Modi highlighted the cultural and emotional connections between India and Ethiopia, drawing personal parallels with his home state of Gujarat. “It is a moment of great privilege to stand before you today. It is wonderful to be here in Ethiopia, the land of lions. I feel very much at home because my home state, Gujarat, is also home to lions,” he said.
The Prime Minister also underscored the symbolic link between the national songs of both countries. “India’s national song ‘Vande Mataram’ and Ethiopia’s national anthem both refer to our land as the Mother. They inspire us to take pride in the heritage, culture, and beauty of our nations and to protect the motherland,” Modi added.
The address emphasized shared values, mutual respect, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage, strengthening the bond between India and Ethiopia at a historic diplomatic milestone.