Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Ethiopia’s highest national honour, The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, marking a historic moment in India–Africa relations. The prestigious award was presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali at a formal ceremony held at the Addis International Convention Centre in Addis Ababa, during Modi’s official visit to the African nation.
Accepting the honour, Prime Minister Modi described the recognition as a matter of immense pride, not just for him personally but for the people of India. He said the award symbolised the deep-rooted civilisational ties and growing strategic partnership between India and Ethiopia, one of the world’s oldest civilisations.
“Being honoured by a nation with such an ancient and rich heritage is truly special,” the Prime Minister said in a post on X. Expressing gratitude to the Ethiopian government and its people, he emphasised that the honour belonged to millions of Indians who have contributed over decades to strengthening bonds between the two countries.
Modi also reaffirmed India’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Ethiopia across multiple sectors, including development, capacity building, trade, and addressing emerging global challenges. He said both nations share a common vision of inclusive growth and South–South cooperation, and pledged to work closely with Addis Ababa to create new opportunities for mutual progress.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the award was conferred in recognition of Prime Minister Modi’s exceptional contribution to strengthening India–Ethiopia relations and for his role as a visionary global leader. Notably, Modi is the first head of state or head of government from any country to receive The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, underlining India’s rising diplomatic stature in Africa.
The honour also drew praise back home. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lauded Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, saying India’s voice and civilisational values are gaining respect worldwide under his stewardship. He said the award reflected the deep historical and cultural connections between India and Ethiopia, as well as Modi’s statesmanship in nurturing global partnerships.
