Addis Ababa, Dec 16 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Addis Ababa represents a significant opportunity to enhance the efforts undertaken by the Indian community in Ethiopia, as stated by Tariku Deressa, the CEO of Gandhi Memorial Hospital (GMH) - a premier public healthcare institution focused on maternal and neonatal care - during an interview with IANS on Tuesday.

Deressa characterized the GMH as an “icon” of the partnership between the two nations, which has been fostered through collaboration between the Indian community residing in Ethiopia and the government.

“The presence of His Excellency Prime Minister Narendra Modi will empower and enhance the collaborative efforts made by the Indian and Ethiopian communities here. The Indian Embassy has been a long-term supporter, representing the Indian government. The Indian community has consistently contributed to the initiatives undertaken by the hospital. Therefore, the arrival of His Excellency will energize every endeavor we have been pursuing in collaboration with the community, the embassy, and the Indian government,” Deressa told IANS.

“Moreover, India possesses one of the largest medical sectors globally. Hence, His Excellency’s visit will strengthen the bond between the Ethiopian government and the Indian government, presenting a remarkable opportunity for Ethiopia to tap into the vast potential of the Indian medical industry. This visit will also create avenues for Indian investors and entrepreneurs to come to Ethiopia and amplify their ongoing efforts. Numerous Indian factories are operating in Ethiopia, producing medications, and several Indian companies are providing medical services. Thus, the Prime Minister's visit will significantly enhance the medical sector and the ties between our two nations,” the CEO added.

PM Modi commenced the second leg of his three-nation tour with his arrival in Ethiopia from Jordan on a two-day State Visit - marking his first visit to the African country - on Tuesday. In a notable gesture, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali warmly received PM Modi at the airport. This visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Ethiopia since 2011, and Addis Ababa has been adorned with welcome banners, posters, and Indian flags in honor of PM Modi.

Deressa emphasized that India and Ethiopia have collaborated extensively across various sectors for a considerable time. However, he pointed out that the ties between the two nations in the medical sector remain particularly robust and vital. He noted that many Ethiopian doctors and health professionals have received training in Indian universities and hospitals.

“India has maintained a close working relationship with Ethiopia across numerous industries and ventures, but the strength of our connections in the medical field is particularly noteworthy. For instance, many Ethiopian doctors and health practitioners have been trained in India’s universities and hospitals, which has significantly contributed to the development of skilled medical professionals serving the community. Furthermore, we import various medical equipment, medicines, reagents, and other medical products that support our hospitals and health institutions. Numerous Indian investors and entrepreneurs are also engaged in various industries within Ethiopia, including the medical sector,” Deressa explained.

“Thus, the arrival of His Excellency and the official visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi will enhance and amplify all the efforts that our country and the bio-industry have been undertaking. As a doctor and a leader at Gandhi Memorial Hospital, I anticipate that this visit will further empower the collaboration between the community and the embassy, particularly in our efforts to assist the Ethiopian population benefiting from GMH. We have ambitious plans, including expanding our current facilities,” he added.

Ethiopia is recognized as a crucial and trustworthy ally for India in Africa and the Global South, and PM Modi's visit is anticipated to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Founded in 1959, the hospital is named after Mahatma Gandhi, symbolizing the longstanding historical, cultural, and diplomatic bonds between Ethiopia and India. It serves as one of the leading specialized facilities for maternal, reproductive, and neonatal health in the country.

“The hospital operates under the administration of Addis Ababa and is the first public maternity and child care facility. Established 73 years ago through the collaboration of the local Indian community, teachers, traders, and merchants, the hospital was built with a vision to provide maternal care, with the Ethiopian government providing the land. It was with this noble ambition that the Gandhi Memorial Hospital was founded, focusing on maternity and child care, which embodies the essence of humanity. Mahatma Gandhi was a champion of human rights and freedom,” said Deressa.