PM Modi Receives Rousing Welcome at Ethiopian Parliament

December 17, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm and enthusiastic welcome during his official visit to Ethiopia on Tuesday. His arrival in Addis Ababa was marked by applause and cheers as he was greeted by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, highlighting the strengthening bonds between India and Ethiopia.<

Addis Ababa: Indian PM Modi welcomed with a bollywood song. Also present Ethiopian PM. pic.twitter.com/y0cUHJhZiB

— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 16, 2025

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Historic Parliamentary Address

Modi was accorded a rousing reception at the Ethiopian Parliament, where he described the welcome as feeling “like home”. In his address to the joint session, he underscored the deep, historical ties between the two nations and reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s development across sectors including trade, agriculture, education, healthcare and technology.

Personal Gestures of Friendship

In a rare and symbolic gesture, Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Ali personally welcomed Modi at the airport and escorted him to his hotel. Along the drive, Abiy took Modi past cultural landmarks such as the Science Museum and Friendship Park — a deviation from the standard itinerary that reflected the warmth of bilateral relations.

Indian Community Participation

At the hotel and various venues, members of the Indian diaspora enthusiastically welcomed Modi, waving Indian flags and chanting slogans. Cultural performances, including Indian songs, were staged to celebrate his visit, reinforcing people-to-people ties between India and Ethiopia.

Strengthening Strategic Partnership

During the visit, leaders from both countries agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, focusing on cooperation in trade, investment, development, and regional stability. Modi praised Ethiopia’s cultural richness and expressed eagerness to expand collaboration, particularly as India prepares to host key international summits in 2026.

Cultural and Diplomatic Highlights

Modi participated in traditional ceremonies, including an Ethiopian coffee ritual with PM Abiy upon arrival — a gesture celebrating shared heritage and hospitality. The visit also sets the stage for future cooperation across diplomatic and economic fronts, strengthening India’s engagement with Africa and the Global South.