Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday was conferred Ethiopia’s highest national honour, ‘The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’, by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali during a special ceremony held at the Addis International Convention Centre. 

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the award was bestowed in recognition of Prime Minister Modi’s exceptional contribution to strengthening India–Ethiopia relations and his visionary leadership as a global statesman. Notably, Modi is the first global head of state or government to receive this prestigious honour.

Reacting to the recognition, Prime Minister Modi said he was deeply humbled.

“I’m honoured to be conferred with the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia.’ I dedicate it to the 140 crore people of India,” he posted on X.

Addressing the gathering after receiving the award, Prime Minister Modi described it as a privilege to be honoured by one of the world’s most ancient civilisations. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and recalled their recent interaction at the G20 Summit in South Africa, where Abiy had personally invited him to visit Ethiopia.

“How could I have turned down this invitation from my friend, my brother? So, at the first chance, I decided to come to Ethiopia,” Modi said.

Prime Minister Modi also praised Prime Minister Abiy’s leadership and his initiatives aimed at national unity, sustainability, and inclusive development, noting Ethiopia’s efforts toward long-term nation-building.

Highlighting the central role of education in development, Modi underscored India’s historical contribution to Ethiopia’s progress through teaching and knowledge-sharing.

“We, in India, have always believed that education is the foundation stone of any country. I am proud that in Ethiopia–India relations, the most significant contribution has come from our teachers,” he said.

Modi further stressed that India and Ethiopia remain committed to expanding cooperation to address evolving global challenges, create new opportunities, and strengthen South-South partnerships.

The Prime Minister dedicated the honour to Indians and Ethiopians alike who have nurtured bilateral ties over generations, conveying gratitude on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.

The conferment of the award marks a significant milestone in India–Ethiopia relations and reinforces India’s broader engagement with Africa and the positive agenda of the Global South, the MEA said.