Global Recognition: Ethiopia Bestows Its Greatest Civilian Award on PM Modi

Updated: December 17, 2025 10:42

Image Source: Vartha Bharathi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the “Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia”, becoming the first global leader to receive it. India and Ethiopia elevated ties to a strategic partnership, signing key agreements in technology and peacekeeping. The recognition underscores India’s expanding global influence and deepening Africa engagement.

In a landmark moment for India-Africa relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the “Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia”, during his bilateral visit to Addis Ababa. The award, presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, recognizes Modi’s exceptional contribution to strengthening bilateral ties and his role as a global statesman.

Key Highlights

First Global Leader Honoured: PM Modi is the first world leader to receive Ethiopia’s highest civilian award, marking a historic precedent.
Strategic Partnership Established: India and Ethiopia formally elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, providing new depth and momentum to cooperation.
Agreements Signed: The visit yielded significant outcomes, including collaboration on customized cooperation, establishment of a data centre, and UN peacekeeping training initiatives.
PM Modi’s Remarks: Expressing gratitude, Modi described the award as a matter of “immense pride” and dedicated it to the countless Indians who have contributed to building the India-Ethiopia partnership.
Global Recognition: This honour adds to Modi’s growing list of international accolades, becoming his 28th foreign state award, underscoring India’s rising global stature.
Cultural Significance: Modi emphasized Ethiopia’s rich civilizational heritage, calling the recognition a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Why It Matters

This development signals a new chapter in India’s engagement with Africa, particularly in East Africa’s strategic landscape. The partnership is expected to boost cooperation in trade, technology, peacekeeping, and infrastructure development, while also enhancing India’s role in global south solidarity. Ethiopia’s gesture highlights India’s growing influence in shaping international partnerships.

Sources: UNI India, Zee NewsZee News, The Hindu Business Line, MEA Press ReleaseMinistry of External Affairs, Government of India, Economic Times, The HinduThe Hindu

Stay Ahead – Explore Now! ASEAN 2025: Unity, Sustainability, And Strategic Expansion Take Center Stage In Kuala Lumpur