Prime Minister Nraendra Modi delivered a landmark address to the Ethiopian Parliament, highlighting the deep historical, cultural, and civilizational ties between the two nations. Speaking to Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, speakers, members of Parliament, and citizens, he expressed his admiration for Ethiopia’s ancient civilization, calling it the “land of lions” and drawing parallels with his home state of Gujarat, also known for its lion population. In his speech, he emphasized Ethiopia’s blend of ancient wisdom and modern ambition as a source of national strength. He praised the country’s farmers, entrepreneurs, women leaders, and youth for shaping Ethiopia’s present and future, and reflected on shared values such as respect for heritage, motherland, and inclusive growth. The Prime Minister referenced Ethiopia’s iconic monuments, like the monolithic churches of Lalibela, comparing them to India’s rock temples in Tamil Nadu, highlighting the civilizations’ shared pride and cultural continuity. Earlier, he was honored with Ethiopia’s highest civilian award, the Grand Honor Nishan, which he accepted with humility on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India. He also spoke of humanity’s shared origins, referencing the fossil Lucy (Dinkinesh) and reinforcing the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the world is one family – emphasizing cooperation, friendship, and a shared destiny between the two nations.


