PM Modi becomes first global head of Govt to receive Ethiopia’s highest award

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Ethiopia’s top award, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, for strengthening India-Ethiopia relations, global leadership, and long-term contributions to development.

Post Published By: Alivia Mukherjee
Updated : 17 December 2025, 12:36 AM IST
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Addis Ababa: In a momentous ceremony at the Addis International Convention Centre, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Ethiopia's highest civilian award, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, from his Ethiopian counterpart, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. Modi is the first global head of state or government to be bestowed with this prestigious recognition, underscoring his impact on international diplomacy and India-Ethiopia relations.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

The award was conferred in recognition of Modi’s exceptional efforts in reinforcing the partnership between India and Ethiopia. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that the accolade acknowledges his visionary leadership as a global statesman and his contributions to fostering long-lasting diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations. India and Ethiopia have shared a long-standing relationship, and Modi’s engagement has further solidified this strategic collaboration.

Modi’s Gratitude and Dedication

Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep gratitude for the honour, dedicating it to the 140 crore people of India. Speaking on X, he wrote, "I'm honoured to be conferred with the 'Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia.' I dedicate it to the 140 crore people of India." During the ceremony, Modi expressed humility and a profound sense of appreciation for receiving recognition from one of the world’s most ancient civilizations.

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Acknowledging Ethiopia’s Leadership

Modi lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, appreciating his initiatives to promote national unity, sustainability, and inclusive development across Ethiopia. He emphasized the significance of collaborative leadership and bilateral engagement in driving progress, peace, and shared prosperity between nations. Modi’s acknowledgment reflects the spirit of partnership and mutual respect that has been cultivated over decades between India and Ethiopia.

Education and Knowledge Sharing

Highlighting the importance of knowledge in nation-building, Modi noted the contributions of Indian educators in Ethiopia for over a century. He recognized their role in the country’s development, particularly in education and skill-building, which has helped deepen people-to-people connections and support Ethiopia’s progress. Modi also dedicated the award to all individuals, Indian and Ethiopian, who have nurtured bilateral ties over the years, reinforcing the human element behind international diplomacy.

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Milestone for India-Ethiopia Relations

The conferment of the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia marks a significant milestone in the India-Ethiopia partnership. It symbolizes mutual respect, shared development goals, and the strengthening of the positive agenda of the Global South. The award underscores India’s commitment to supporting sustainable growth, knowledge exchange, and cooperative initiatives in Africa, further elevating Modi’s role as a global statesman.

Location : 
  • Addis Ababa

Published : 
  • 17 December 2025, 12:36 AM IST