Prime Minister Modi gets standing ovation in Ethiopia (Photo-X)
ANI, New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was given a continuous standing ovation for about 90 seconds, marking a significant moment in his maiden visit to the East African nation and reflecting the warmth and goodwill that underpins bilateral relations.
The applause began immediately after the Prime Minister concluded his speech by thanking the people of Ethiopia and continued as he walked down the stage and greeted the Members of Parliament, clearly underscoring the strong and growing relations between the two countries.
"Thank you for your friendship, thank you for your trust... thank you," Prime Minister Modi said in concluding his speech, using Ethiopian idioms to express gratitude. There was continuous applause in the Parliament on his statement.
In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the deep ties between India and Ethiopia, placing the contemporary partnership in the historical and cultural context. He said that around 2000 years ago, exchanges between the two regions extended beyond commerce to ideas and lifestyles.
Ports like Addis and Dholera were not only trade centers but also bridges between civilizations, he said, adding that the relationship entered a new phase in modern times when Indian troops fought alongside the Ethiopians during the liberation of the country in 1941.
Building on these historical ties, Prime Minister Modi stressed on the expanded economic partnership between the two countries.
He said Indian companies are among the largest investors in Ethiopia. They have invested more than $5 billion in various sectors and created more than 75,000 jobs. We have decided to elevate India-Ethiopia bilateral relations to the level of strategic partnership.
He also drew attention to India's governance experience, especially in the area of service delivery. He said India's digital public infrastructure has transformed the way services are provided and the way people access them. Referring to cooperation during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prime Minister said India is proud to stand with Ethiopia during the global crisis.
Ethiopia's highest honor for Modi a symbol of India's growing prestige: Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi receiving Ethiopia's highest civilian award reflects "India's growing prestige". This is a proud moment for every Indian. Congratulating Modi, Shah said that 'The Great Honor of Ethiopia' is the 28th international award given to the Prime Minister by a foreign nation, which shows global recognition of his political skills.