Addis Ababa, Dec 17 (NationPress) Expressing his gratitude to the Ethiopian people for their gracious hospitality, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared that he is optimistic about the renewed energy his visit has infused into the India-Ethiopia relationship, which is anchored in mutual values and a united vision for the future.

He also thanked Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for his kind gesture of seeing him off at the airport.

"As I wrap up a truly unforgettable visit to Ethiopia, I take with me the warmth of its people and the strength of our lasting friendship. This trip included fruitful discussions with Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali and the honor of addressing the Ethiopian Parliament. This visit has invigorated India-Ethiopia relations and fortified a partnership grounded in shared ideals and a collective vision for the future. We have advanced our collaboration to a Strategic Partnership, which will significantly benefit both our nations. My heartfelt thanks to the Government and people of Ethiopia, and to PM Abiy Ahmed Ali for his thoughtful farewell at the airport," PM Modi remarked on X.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi concluded his two-day stay in Ethiopia and departed for Oman, marking the last leg of his three-nation tour. In a special act of friendship, Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Ali personally drove PM Modi to the airport and bid him farewell. Notably, Abiy Ahmed Ali had also welcomed PM Modi at the airport on Tuesday and drove him from the airport to his hotel.

Earlier that day, PM Modi and his Ethiopian counterpart Abiy Ahmed Ali participated in planting a sapling in Addis Ababa as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Initiative.'

"After addressing the Parliament in Addis Ababa this morning, I joined PM Abiy Ahmed Ali and other dignitaries in planting a sapling as a symbol of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' (A tree for Mother) and the Green Legacy initiative of Ethiopia," PM Modi posted on X.

During his visit, PM Modi also addressed the Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament, drawing parallels between 'Vande Mataram' and Ethiopia's national anthem 'March Forward, Dear Mother Ethiopia,' emphasizing that both nations refer to their land as 'mother,' which demonstrates their shared perspective.

"It was a profound honor and privilege to address the Ethiopian Parliament this morning. The rich history, culture, and spirit of Ethiopia inspire immense respect and admiration. I reaffirmed India's commitment to further fortifying our partnership, driven by shared values, mutual trust, and a collective vision for peace, development, and cooperation," PM Modi shared on X before heading to Oman.

In his address, he also highlighted the connection between India's national song 'Vande Mataram' and Ethiopia's national anthem, noting that both celebrate the land as a mother and inspire pride in heritage, culture, and the protection of the homeland.

"With the ethos of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayaas,' which translates to growth, trust, and effort for all, our sentiments towards our motherland resonate with our shared vision," PM Modi stated.

Following his address in the Ethiopian Parliament, PM Modi expressed his delight in engaging with Ethiopian ministers and MPs.

Prime Minister Modi laid a wreath at the Adwa Victory Monument in Addis Ababa and visited the Adwa Museum, where he was briefed about the history of the African nation by officials.

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi was also honored with Ethiopia's highest civilian award, the 'Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia,' to which he extended his sincere gratitude to the Ethiopian government and people.