PM Modi arrives in Addis Ababa, received by Ethiopian counterpart at airport

What happened:

On December 16, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Addis Ababa on a two-day State Visit—his first to Ethiopia. He was welcomed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. The visit includes talks on bilateral ties, meetings with the Indian diaspora, and an address to the Ethiopian Parliament, following his visit to Jordan.

Why it matters to India:

The visit underscores Ethiopia’s importance as a key partner for India in Africa and the Global South, especially with Addis Ababa hosting the African Union. It reflects India’s commitment to deepening South–South cooperation, strengthening ties with Africa, and expanding strategic, economic, and diplomatic engagement on the continent.