Addis Ababa, Dec 17 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi experienced a heartwarming moment during a banquet dinner arranged by his Ethiopian counterpart, Abiy Ahmed Ali, in Addis Ababa. A group of local singers greeted him with an enchanting rendition of Vande Mataram.

This banquet took place on Tuesday, highlighting the warm and ceremonial reception extended by the African nation upon the Prime Minister's arrival.

Throughout the dinner, Ethiopian vocalists performed Vande Mataram, a performance that Prime Minister Modi clearly relished, applauding the artists in appreciation.

This gesture held heightened significance as it coincided with the celebration of 150 years since the creation of India's national anthem.

Sharing a video of this touching moment on X, Prime Minister Modi remarked, "During yesterday's banquet dinner hosted by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, an extraordinary rendition of Vande Mataram was performed by Ethiopian singers. It was a deeply moving moment, especially as we commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram."

The video showcases the Prime Minister raising his hands and clapping enthusiastically for the performers as they completed their act.

Prime Minister Modi's arrival in Ethiopia was met with a rousing welcome, marking a significant phase of his official visit.

This visit, extended at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, underscores the growing strategic and diplomatic importance of India-Ethiopia relations.

Shortly after his arrival, both leaders engaged in an informal conversation at the airport.

"At Addis Ababa airport, I participated in a traditional Coffee Ceremony with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. This ceremony beautifully reflects Ethiopia's rich heritage," PM Modi shared on X.

In a remarkable and personal gesture, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali himself drove Prime Minister Modi from the airport to his hotel. During the ride, he took the initiative to showcase the Science Museum and Friendship Park, which was not included in the original schedule.

Members of the Indian community in Ethiopia warmly welcomed Prime Minister Modi upon his arrival at the hotel in Addis Ababa.

Prime Minister Modi interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, many of whom had eagerly awaited his arrival for hours. They waved Indian flags, chanted "Modi Modi" and "Bharat Mata ki Jai", and offered flowers to the Prime Minister.

Later, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali enjoyed cultural performances and posed for photographs with attendees.

In a display of cultural hospitality, a group of performers sang the Hindi song 'Dharti Sunehra Ambar Neela' from the Bollywood film 'Veer Zaara' to welcome the Prime Minister at the hotel.