Addis Ababa, Dec 15 (NationPress) The capital and largest city of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa is beautifully adorned with an array of hoardings and welcome banners in anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming State Visit, which begins on Tuesday.

The city is festively decorated with colorful posters and Indian flags as the nation eagerly prepares for the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 2011.

Currently in Jordan, PM Modi initiated his three-nation tour on Monday and is set to arrive in Ethiopia on Tuesday for his inaugural visit, which will be followed by a trip to Oman.

Ethiopia is recognized as a crucial and reliable partner of India within the Global South, and during his two-day visit, PM Modi will engage in several important interactions at the invitation of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Addis Ababa is also home to the African Union headquarters. In 2023, under India’s G20 Presidency, the African Union gained permanent membership in the G20. PM Modi expressed, "In Addis Ababa, I will engage in detailed discussions with H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali and meet the Indian community there. I will also address a Joint Session of Parliament, where I look forward to sharing insights on India's journey as the 'Mother of Democracy' and the benefits of the India–Ethiopia partnership for the Global South," in his statement prior to departure on Monday.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been an influential participant and speaker at previous Voice of Global South forums. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) indicates that this visit signifies India's dedication to enhancing South-South cooperation and fortifying partnerships with Africa.

According to Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South) at the MEA, "This visit will foster cooperation in various fields, including economy, trade, culture, and people-to-people connections. Discussions will center on diversifying trade, improving connectivity, and exploring new investment opportunities in sectors like infrastructure, IT, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing."

India and Ethiopia have a rich history of collaboration in education, skill development, and capacity building. India has been providing scholarships and training for Ethiopian students and professionals through ITEC and ICCR programs. Notably, many leaders in Ethiopia’s educational institutions have studied in India under government-sponsored scholarships. Thus, ITEC remains a crucial platform for skill enhancement and capacity building in Ethiopia.

The visit is also anticipated to strengthen the role of the Indian diaspora in Ethiopia, acting as a natural bridge between the two nations.

Furthermore, climate action is expected to be a key area of collaboration. India continues to support Ethiopia's renewable energy projects through the International Solar Alliance, which has seen significant engagement, including the establishment of a Solar Technology Application Resource Center (STARC) at Addis Ababa University and the completion of Ethiopia's first grid-connected solar rooftop.

Malhotra further stated, "This visit reaffirms India's commitment as a trusted long-term partner for Ethiopia. India is dedicated to collaborating with Ethiopia to create a stable, secure, and inclusive international order while advancing Africa’s priorities aligned with Agenda 2063 and shared global objectives. We believe this visit will invigorate bilateral relations and pave new avenues for future cooperation."