PM Modi Becomes First Global Leader to Receive Ethiopia’s Highest Honour

Addis Ababa, Dec 17 : Ethiopia on Tuesday conferred its highest state honour, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, making him the first global Head of State or Government to receive the prestigious award. The honour was bestowed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.

This marks the 28th top foreign State honour conferred on Prime Minister Modi. In his remarks, he said the recognition belonged to the people of India whose trust, contributions and efforts have strengthened the India–Ethiopia partnership.

“To be honoured by one of the world’s most ancient and prosperous civilisations is a matter of great pride for me. On behalf of all Indians, I humbly accept this honour. This award is for the countless Indians who have shaped our partnership,” the Prime Minister said.

Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, PM Modi recalled their recent meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in South Africa and said the warmth of the invitation led to his visit to Ethiopia within weeks.

PM Modi also highlighted the role of education and Indian teachers in fostering bilateral ties. “Knowledge liberates, and education is the foundation of any nation. Indian teachers have played a significant role in Ethiopia, contributing to the education of generations. Even today, Indian faculty members continue to serve in Ethiopian universities and higher education institutions,” he said.

Emphasising forward-looking cooperation, the Prime Minister said the future belongs to partnerships based on vision and trust. “Together with Ethiopia, we are committed to advancing partnerships that can address evolving global challenges and create new opportunities,” he added.

In a post on X, PM Modi said he dedicated the honour to the 140 crore people of India.

The Bharatiya Janata Party termed the honour a reflection of India’s rising global stature and PM Modi’s leadership on the world stage. “This 28th international honour reflects India’s growing influence globally and the Prime Minister’s respected leadership,” the party said in a post.

During the visit, India and Ethiopia elevated their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. Following talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, PM Modi said the decision would provide bilateral relations with “new energy, new speed and new depth”.

“India and Ethiopia have shared contact and exchange for thousands of years. Both are democratic powers committed to peace and the welfare of humanity. We are partners of the Global South and have stood shoulder-to-shoulder on international platforms,” PM Modi said, noting Ethiopia’s role as the host of the African Union headquarters and India’s support for the African Union’s G20 membership in 2023.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali said Ethiopia’s economy was performing strongly and welcomed the deepening of ties with India.

PM Modi arrived in Ethiopia on Tuesday for a two-day visit and was accorded a warm welcome on arrival.