PM Modi receives Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred Ethiopia’s highest national award, marking a historic moment in India–Africa relations. He became the first global head of state or government to receive the prestigious honour, underscoring the growing strategic and diplomatic partnership between India and Ethiopia.

Historic honour in Addis Ababa

Prime Minister Modi was awarded “The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia” at a special ceremony held at the Addis International Convention Centre. The award was presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in recognition of Modi’s role in strengthening bilateral ties and his stature as a global statesman. The Ministry of External Affairs described the conferment as a reflection of India’s deepening engagement with Ethiopia and the African continent.

Recognition of India–Ethiopia partnership

According to Ethiopian authorities, the honour acknowledges Prime Minister Modi’s exceptional contribution to enhancing political, economic, and people-to-people cooperation between the two countries. India and Ethiopia share a long-standing relationship rooted in education, capacity building, and development cooperation. Indian professionals, particularly teachers and academics, have contributed to Ethiopia’s nation-building efforts for more than a century.

Modi’s remarks and dedication of the award

Accepting the honour, Prime Minister Modi expressed humility and gratitude, calling it a privilege to receive recognition from one of the world’s oldest civilisations. He dedicated the award to the 140 crore people of India and thanked Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the Ethiopian people for the gesture. Modi also praised Abiy’s leadership in promoting national unity, sustainability, and inclusive development in Ethiopia.

What to Note for Exams?

• The award is called ‘The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’.
• PM Modi is the first head of government to receive it.
• The ceremony was held in Addis Ababa.
• The honour highlights India–Ethiopia cooperation and Global South ties.

Significance for the Global South

The conferment of Ethiopia’s highest award is being seen as a milestone in India’s engagement with Africa and the broader Global South. It reinforces India’s image as a trusted development partner and highlights shared priorities such as education, capacity building, and sustainable growth. The recognition also symbolises the enduring goodwill between the people of India and Ethiopia and their commitment to advancing a positive, inclusive global agenda.