Global South charting its future, India and Ethiopia share vision: PM Modi

Addis Ababa

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday planted a sapling at the Ethiopian Parliament under India’s “Ek Ped, Maa Ke Naam” initiative, underlining India’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. The gesture was linked with Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, reflecting a shared resolve by both countries to safeguard nature for future generations.

Addressing a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament, Prime Minister Modi conveyed India’s greetings of friendship and goodwill. Referring to Mahatma Gandhi’s idea of trusteeship, he said humanity does not own the Earth but holds it in trust for generations to come. He noted that India and Ethiopia, as ancient civilisations, share deep cultural bonds and can be seen as natural partners, with Ethiopia at the crossroads of Africa and India at the heart of the Indian Ocean.

The Prime Minister highlighted the shared vision of India and Ethiopia for the Global South, calling for fair development, accessible technology, respect for sovereignty, shared prosperity and lasting peace. He also drew parallels between the constitutions of the two nations, pointing out that both place people at the centre of national destiny.

Prime Minister Modi recalled the contribution of thousands of Indian teachers who have worked in Ethiopia over the decades, saying they played an important role in the country’s development and earned deep respect among its people.

Earlier, he paid tribute at the Adwa Victory Monument and visited the Adwa Museum, honouring Ethiopia’s long struggle for freedom and sovereignty. After his address, the Prime Minister interacted with members of Parliament and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ethiopia based on shared values, trust and cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the Global South is shaping its own future, speaking at a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament. He said India and Ethiopia share a common vision based on fair development, accessible technology and respect for sovereignty. PM Modi stressed the need to reform global systems to reflect present realities and emphasised the deep historical, cultural and economic ties between the two countries.