PM Modi Receives Ethiopia’s Highest Civilian Honour
P M Narendra Modi has been awarded Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, marking a historic milestone in India-Africa diplomatic relations.
Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), December 17, 2025 — In a landmark moment for India-Africa relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the “Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia”, during his first official bilateral visit to the East African nation. The prestigious accolade was presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali at a special ceremony held at the Addis International Convention Centre on Tuesday, underscoring deepening ties between the two democracies and marking a high point in diplomatic engagement. PM India+1
The award recognizes PM Modi’s exceptional contribution to strengthening bilateral cooperation and his visionary leadership as a global statesman. In a significant diplomatic milestone, Modi became the first global Head of State or Government to receive this distinguished honour — a recognition that reflects growing strategic collaboration between India and Ethiopia. www.ndtv.com
A Historic Ceremony in the Heart of Addis Ababa
The award ceremony drew high-profile attendance from Ethiopian dignitaries and senior officials, reflecting the importance Addis Ababa places on the burgeoning partnership with India. During the event, Dr. Abiy Ahmed highlighted the longstanding historical and cultural links between the two nations, noting that the honour symbolised mutual respect and shared aspirations for peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
In his acceptance, PM Modi expressed deep humility and gratitude, stating that it was a “matter of great pride” to be recognized by one of the world’s oldest civilizations and an honour to receive such recognition on behalf of all Indians. He dedicated the award to the 140 crore people of India and to all those, both Indians and Ethiopians, who have worked tirelessly to nurture bilateral relations over the years. PM India+1
Modi spoke of the ancient bonds linking India and Ethiopia and underlined the partnership’s potential to contribute meaningfully to global efforts for inclusive development and prosperity. He thanked Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for his leadership and commitment to strengthening cooperation in diverse sectors. www.narendramodi.in
Strengthening India–Ethiopia Relations
The award ceremony was part of a broader agenda during Modi’s two-day visit to Ethiopia, which included high-level talks between Indian and Ethiopian delegations. The two leaders agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a “Strategic Partnership”, setting the stage for expanded cooperation across areas such as trade, technology, health, education, security, and capacity building. The Times of India
Discussions also focused on shared priorities such as food and health security, infrastructure development, and collaboration on multilateral platforms that champion the interests of the Global South. This aligns with India’s broader diplomatic outreach in Africa, which emphasizes mutual respect, developmental partnership, and people-to-people ties. AP News
During the visit, leaders of both nations also signed several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening cooperation in fields including sustainable development, scientific collaboration, and training programs. These agreements are expected to enhance knowledge exchange and foster commercial and educational linkages. The Times of India
Warm Diplomatic Gestures and Cultural Exchanges
PM Modi’s visit was marked by notable diplomatic courtesies and cultural experiences that symbolized the warmth of India-Ethiopia relations. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed personally welcomed Modi at the airport and, in a rare and symbolic gesture of respect, drove him to his hotel, a move widely interpreted as a sign of personal esteem and bilateral camaraderie. Business Standard+1
Modi also took part in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, reflecting Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage and the deep historical significance of coffee in Ethiopian society. The ceremony, which symbolized hospitality and friendship, was highlighted as a meaningful cultural engagement during the visit. Navbharat Times
Domestic and International Reactions
The news of PM Modi being conferred Ethiopia’s highest honour was met with widespread acclaim across India’s political and diplomatic corridors. Union leaders and senior officials lauded the development as a testament to India’s rising global stature and Modi’s personal diplomatic engagement. BJP President JP Nadda described it as a “moment of pride for the country”, reflecting India’s growing influence on the world stage. malaysiasun.com
Senior leaders from across the political spectrum, including the Lok Sabha Speaker, Home Minister, and External Affairs Minister, congratulated the Prime Minister, underscoring the significance of this international recognition. DD News
International observers have also noted the strategic importance of this diplomatic milestone, with commentators highlighting Ethiopia’s evolving role in global geopolitics — particularly as it deepens engagement with emerging partners amid shifting international dynamics. News of Bahrain
Significance of the Honour and Modi’s Global Recognition
The “Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia” is the nation’s highest civilian recognition, awarded for exceptional contribution to the state and international cooperation. Ethiopia’s choice to confer this honour on PM Modi not only acknowledges his individual leadership but also signals Ethiopia’s intent to fortify ties with India as part of broader global alliances.
For Modi, this award adds to a distinguished list of international honours received over the years, reflecting widespread acknowledgment of his leadership and India’s diplomatic outreach. With this honour, he now has received honours from nearly 28 foreign nations, underscoring a sustained global recognition of his role in steering India’s foreign relations. Oneindia Hindi
Looking Ahead
As the strategic partnership between India and Ethiopia takes shape, both nations are expected to leverage their cooperation in areas such as technology transfer, capacity building, skill development, and climate action. Analysts see this partnership as part of India’s larger push to deepen ties with African nations, strengthen South-South cooperation, and address shared challenges like economic inequalities and sustainable development.
Modi’s visit is likely to pave the way for future high-level engagements and joint initiatives, cementing a partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared history, and common aspirations for growth and prosperity.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s conferment of Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, marks a historic moment in bilateral relations, reflecting deep respect and strategic alignment between India and Ethiopia. The event not only celebrates diplomatic achievement but also lays the foundation for a robust partnership with far-reaching implications for both nations and the wider Global South. The Times of India
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