Addis Ababa, Dec 16 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced the second phase of his three-country tour on Tuesday, arriving in Ethiopia from Jordan for a two-day State Visit—marking his inaugural trip to this African nation. In a warm gesture, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali greeted PM Modi at the airport.

This visit, invited by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, highlights the increasing strategic significance of India-Ethiopia relations.

During his stay, PM Modi will engage in extensive discussions with Abiy Ahmed on various aspects of bilateral relations, including political collaboration, developmental support, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. As partners in the Global South, both leaders are anticipated to reaffirm their commitment to enhancing friendship and fostering cooperation for mutual growth.

Additionally, PM Modi will interact with members of the Indian community and deliver a speech at a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament.

This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ethiopia since 2011, with Addis Ababa adorned with welcome banners, posters, and Indian flags in honor of PM Modi.

Ethiopia is recognized as a vital and reliable partner for India in Africa and the Global South, and this visit is expected to further advance bilateral collaboration.

In his departure statement on Monday, PM Modi emphasized the importance of Addis Ababa as the headquarters of the African Union, noting that during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, the African Union was granted permanent membership in the G20. He expressed eagerness for detailed discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, a meeting with members of the Indian diaspora, and to address a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament.

“I am keen to share my insights on India’s journey as the ‘Mother of Democracy’ and the benefits that the India-Ethiopia partnership can offer to the Global South,” stated the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has actively participated in previous editions of the Voice of Global South summit. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, this visit signifies India’s ongoing dedication to enhancing South-South cooperation and deepening ties with Africa.

PM Modi arrived in Ethiopia after completing a two-day visit to Jordan, where he met with King Abdullah II, Crown Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II, addressed the India-Jordan Business Forum, and toured the Jordan Museum. Upon his arrival in Amman on Monday, he was received by Jordanian PM Jafar Hassan at the airport.

PM Modi described his Jordan visit as “productive” and mentioned that the results achieved will pave new paths for progress and prosperity for the citizens of both nations.

In a post on X on Tuesday afternoon, PM Modi remarked, “My visit to Jordan has been immensely productive. I express my gratitude to His Majesty King Abdullah II and the people of Jordan for their exceptional friendship. Our discussions have strengthened the India-Jordan partnership across key areas such as renewable energy, water management, digital transformation, cultural exchanges, and heritage cooperation. The outcomes we have achieved together will open new avenues for progress and prosperity for our citizens. I am also thankful to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II for coming to the airport as I leave Jordan.”