India and Ethiopia have elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, marking a major milestone during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first official visit to the Horn of Africa nation.
Speaking to Ethiopia’s parliament, Modi said the upgrade followed talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and would deepen cooperation in key areas including technology, mining, green energy and defence. Media reported that the move is expected to unlock new economic opportunities for both countries. Modi said the new partnership would help harness the full potential of the two economies through innovation, technology transfer and sustainable development. He also highlighted the long-standing cultural links between the two nations, noting shared symbolism in how both countries honour their homelands as “mother”.
During his address, Modi praised Ethiopia’s historic victory at the 1896 Battle of Adwa, describing it as an enduring symbol of resistance to colonisation and a source of inspiration for countries of the Global South. The Indian leader underlined the role of Indian businesses in Ethiopia, saying they are among the country’s largest foreign investors. Indian companies, he noted, have invested more than $5 billion across sectors such as textiles, agriculture, manufacturing and healthcare, creating over 75,000 local jobs.
Several memorandums of understanding were signed during the visit, including an agreement for India to develop a major data centre for Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Prime Minister Abiy described the visit as a turning point in relations, saying it reflected growing ties and would pave the way for deeper cooperation on shared priorities. The visit also included symbolic gestures, with Abiy personally accompanying Modi to key sites in Addis Ababa.
Modi was awarded Ethiopia’s highest national honour, the Grand Nishan of Ethiopia. The partnership upgrade comes after Ethiopia joined the BRICS bloc and the African Union became a permanent member of the G20, a move backed by India. Modi said these developments reflect a broader shift in global influence, with the Global South increasingly shaping its own future.