How Did Ethiopia's Abiy Ahmed Ali Thank PM Modi for Strengthening Ties?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened diplomatic relations between India and Ethiopia.
- Historic visit marks the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Ethiopia.
- Enhanced cultural exchanges through shared initiatives like 'Green Legacy'.
- Recognition of mutual historical ties and sacrifices made during liberation efforts.
- Future cooperation anticipated in various sectors.
Addis Ababa, Dec 17 (NationPress) Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali expressed gratitude to PM Modi for his historic two-day visit to Addis Ababa, the first of its kind by an Indian Prime Minister, emphasizing the hope that both nations will continue to nurture their historical, cultural, and diplomatic ties.
“Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, I am optimistic that we will meet again. With this anticipation, our nations will remain linked through our shared historical, cultural, and diplomatic connections,” the Ethiopian Prime Minister wrote in Hindi on his X account after personally seeing the Indian leader off on Tuesday afternoon.
As PM Modi completed his two-day sojourn in Ethiopia before heading to Oman for the last leg of his three-nation tour, in a remarkable gesture, Abiy Ahmed Ali drove him to the airport himself. Furthermore, he had welcomed PM Modi at the airport on Tuesday and personally transported him to his hotel in the capital.
“Thank you, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for your visit to Ethiopia and your ongoing commitment to enhancing India–Ethiopia relations. The elevation of our relationship to a strategic level signifies a crucial milestone and initiates a new chapter of profound cooperation and mutual advancement between our nations,” he posted in another message on Wednesday.
Earlier that day, PM Modi and his Ethiopian counterpart planted saplings at the Ethiopian House of People's Representatives as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative and Ethiopia's 'Green Legacy' project.
PM Modi also had the honor of addressing a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament during his inaugural bilateral visit to the nation.
He expressed his appreciation to the Ethiopian populace and government for granting him the esteemed Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia. Highlighting the significance of their relationship, the Prime Minister conveyed his deep satisfaction that the long-standing ties between the two nations have been upgraded to a strategic partnership during this visit.
“Reflecting on the civilizational connections between India and Ethiopia, the Prime Minister emphasized that both countries blend ancient wisdom with modern aspirations. He noted that India’s national song 'Vande Mataram' and the Ethiopian anthem both refer to their homeland as mother,” noted the Indian Prime Minister's Office (PMO).
“In referring to the shared struggles of the two nations, the Prime Minister underscored the contributions of Indian soldiers who fought alongside Ethiopians for their liberation in 1941. He stated it was a privilege to honor the Adwa Victory Monument, which symbolizes the sacrifices made by the Ethiopian people,” the statement continued.