Addis Ababa, Dec 17 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, participated in a significant event on Wednesday by planting a sapling in Addis Ababa as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative.

During his address to the Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament, PM Modi emphasized the deep connection shared between the two nations, both in climate and in spirit. He acknowledged the role of Indian educators in shaping the future of Ethiopia.

He remarked that the relationship between India and Africa has expanded tremendously throughout his 11 years in office, noting over 100 exchanges at the highest levels of leadership.

"India and Ethiopia share warmth in both climate and spirit. Our ancestors established ties across the seas nearly 2000 years ago. Across the Indian Ocean, traders transported spices, cotton, coffee, and gold, but more importantly, they shared ideas and cultural narratives. Ports such as Adulis and Dholera served not only as trade hubs but also as connections between civilizations," he stated.

In contemporary times, PM Modi highlighted that the bilateral ties entered a new phase when Indian troops joined forces with Ethiopians in their struggle for liberation in 1941.

"Our formal diplomatic relations commenced soon after India's independence. Even prior to establishing embassies, our people began crafting a shared history," he added.

"Thousands of Indian teachers have come to Ethiopia, educating children from Addis Ababa to Bahirdar. They have become a cherished part of Ethiopian society. Likewise, numerous Ethiopian students have traveled to India, gaining knowledge and fostering friendships, returning as architects of modern Ethiopia," he continued.

He expressed that India feels privileged to be selected by Ethiopia as a dependable partner in developing its foreign ministry's data center.

Highlighting India's reputation as the 'pharmacy of the world', PM Modi reflected on the Covid-19 pandemic, stating, "During the global crisis, we felt it was our moral obligation to assist others, sending medicines and vaccines to over 150 nations, including more than four million doses to Ethiopia."

PM Modi also paid tribute at the Adwa Victory Monument in Addis Ababa, a modern site that commemorates the historic 1896 Battle of Adwa, where Ethiopian forces achieved victory against Italian invaders, symbolizing Pan-African resilience.

Additionally, he toured the Adwa Museum, where officials shared insights about Ethiopia's rich history.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Ethiopia on Tuesday to a warm reception, as part of a significant leg of his official visit.

This trip, initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, underscores the increasing strategic and diplomatic importance of India-Ethiopia relations.

In a personal touch, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed drove PM Modi from the airport to the hotel, taking the opportunity to showcase the Science Museum and Friendship Park, which was not originally part of the itinerary.

Members of the Indian expatriate community in Ethiopia greeted PM Modi enthusiastically upon his arrival at the hotel.

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