Addis Ababa, Dec 17 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his two-day stay in Ethiopia on Wednesday, departing for Oman, which marks the final destination of his three-nation tour. In a remarkable act of hospitality, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali personally drove PM Modi to the airport, extending a heartfelt farewell as the Indian leader boarded his flight. This personal touch was evident earlier as well, when Abiy Ahmed welcomed PM Modi at the airport on Tuesday and drove him from the airport to his hotel.

On the same day, PM Modi and his Ethiopian counterpart planted a sapling in Addis Ababa as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Initiative.'

During his visit, PM Modi addressed a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament, drawing comparisons between 'Vande Mataram' and Ethiopia's national anthem, 'March Forward, Dear Mother Ethiopia'. He highlighted that both nations refer to their respective lands as 'mother,' showcasing their shared cultural perspective.

“It was a profound honor to address the Ethiopian Parliament this morning. Ethiopia’s rich history, culture, and spirit command deep respect and admiration. I emphasized India’s commitment to further enhance our partnership, anchored in shared values, mutual trust, and a collective vision for peace, development, and cooperation,” PM Modi tweeted before his departure for Oman.

In his speech, PM Modi reiterated the pride both nations take in their heritage, culture, and commitment to protecting their motherlands, encapsulated in his call of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayaas', which translates to togetherness for everyone's growth, trust, and effort.

Moreover, PM Modi noted that scientific discoveries have traced some of humanity's earliest footprints back to Ethiopia.

“When the world refers to 'Lucy of Dinkinesh', it signifies more than just fossils; it symbolizes a shared beginning—one that belongs to all of us, whether residing in Addis Ababa or Ayodhya. In India, we say 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', meaning 'The world is one family'. This sentiment transcends politics, borders, and differences, reminding us of our common origins. If our beginnings are shared, our destinies should be too,” he added.

PM Modi expressed joy after engaging with Ethiopian ministers and MPs after addressing the parliament. He also laid a wreath at the Adwa Victory Monument in Addis Ababa and visited the Adwa Museum, where officials provided insights into the history of this African nation.

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

Modi received a warm welcome upon his arrival in Ethiopia on Tuesday.