History was written today in Addis Ababa as Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood before a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament. This address marks the 18th time PM Modi has spoken at a foreign parliament, but the energy in the room suggested this was something more than routine diplomacy. It was a “civilizational homecoming.”
For the global audience of dharmendrakumhar.com, this visit represents India’s solidified role as the “Vishwa Mitra” (friend of the world) and the leading voice for the Global South.
- The “Grand Honour Nishan of Ethiopia”
The day began with a moment of high ceremony as Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali conferred the “Grand Honour Nishan of Ethiopia” upon PM Modi. This is the highest civilian award of the nation.
Receiving this award, PM Modi stated that it belonged to the 1.4 billion people of India. In the context of India-Africa relations, this honor is deeply symbolic. It signifies Ethiopia’s recognition of India not just as a trading partner, but as a primary strategic ally. This comes at a time when Ethiopia is navigating complex regional tensions and seeking stable, non-predatory investment.
- “Land of Lions”: Connecting Gir to the Horn of Africa
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the PM’s address. Using a metaphor that resonated deeply with the locals, he called Ethiopia the “Land of Lions.” “In Gujarat, we take pride in the roar of the Asiatic Lion. Here, in Ethiopia, the lion is a symbol of your sovereignty and spirit,” Modi said. By drawing this parallel, he moved the conversation from dry economics to shared identity. He spoke of the “Motherland”—noting that while Indians sing Vande Mataram, Ethiopians also revere their land as a maternal figure, a shared sentiment that predates modern borders.
- The 150 Years of Vande Mataram
In a moving gesture, Ethiopian singers performed a rendition of Vande Mataram during the state banquet. This coincided with India marking the 150th year of the national song. The Prime Minister shared this video globally, highlighting the “soft power” of Indian culture. It wasn’t just about a song; it was about showing that Indian values find a home in the heart of Africa.
- Strategic Outcomes: Beyond the Speech
While the rhetoric was powerful, the “deliverables” were equally significant. India and Ethiopia officially elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership. Key MoUs signed include:
- Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): India will help Ethiopia build its own version of the “India Stack,” focusing on digital payments and identity.
- UN Peacekeeping: Ethiopia is one of the largest contributors to UN missions; India will now provide advanced tactical training to their officers.
- Energy and Minerals: Cooperation in critical minerals, essential for India’s green energy transition, was a top agenda item.
- India as the Bridge for the Global South
PM Modi reminded the parliament that it was India that championed the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20. He positioned India as a “trusted partner” that offers technology and training without the “debt traps” often associated with other global powers.
“Our development partnership is not based on conditions, but on your priorities,” Modi remarked. This “human-centric” approach to diplomacy is what differentiates India’s “Viksit” vision from traditional colonial or neo-colonial models.
Conclusion: The Roar of a New Partnership
As PM Modi prepares to leave for the final leg of his tour in Oman, the “Land of Lions” speech will likely be remembered as the moment India-Ethiopia relations moved from the periphery to the center stage.
As Dharmendra Kumhar, I see this as a victory for the “Global South” identity. When a world leader speaks of shared lions and maternal lands, it builds a bridge that no amount of pure commerce can replicate.
How do you feel about India’s growing influence in Africa? Does the “Strategic Partnership” with Ethiopia benefit the average Indian citizen? Let’s discuss below!