PM Modi Holds Talks With Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Focuses on Expanding Bilateral Cooperation – Obnews

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali on Tuesday, holding discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation on issues of mutual interest. The meeting took place during Modi’s first ever bilateral visit to Ethiopia, following his arrival from Jordan.

Upon reaching Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the National Palace, underscoring the importance Ethiopia placed on the visit. Earlier, Modi had said he was looking forward to engaging with the Ethiopian leadership to deepen ties and explore new areas of partnership between the two countries.

In a notable diplomatic gesture, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed personally received Modi at the airport and extended a warm and colourful welcome. Ethiopian officials and cultural performers were present as part of the reception, highlighting the significance of the visit in bilateral relations.

In an unusual and symbolic move, Abiy Ahmed himself drove Prime Minister Modi from the airport to his hotel. During the journey, the Ethiopian leader also took Modi to visit the Science Museum and Friendship Park, locations that were not part of the official itinerary. The visit offered Modi a glimpse into Ethiopia’s development initiatives and public spaces focused on innovation and national unity.

Sources described the gestures as a reflection of the close personal rapport between the two leaders and Ethiopia’s respect for India’s leadership. Abiy Ahmed, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has previously emphasized the importance of strengthening Ethiopia’s partnerships with key global players, including India.

Discussions between the two leaders are expected to cover cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, education, technology, and capacity building. The visit is seen as an effort to elevate India Ethiopia relations and reinforce India’s engagement with Africa at a time of growing strategic and economic collaboration between the regions.