Africa: Ethiopia extended the highest civilian honour ‘the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’ to Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, during a ceremonial event in Adis Ababa. Modi has become the first leader to ever receive this highest civilian honour.
Modi visited Addis Ababa to mark his first bilateral tour to Ethiopia. Upon reaching there he was received by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia – Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali and was welcomed with warm gestures.
This prestigious award was conferred in recognition of his leadership and his role in strengthening India’s relationship with Ethiopia. This honour marks the 28th international civilian award which was received by PM Modi that underlines the growing global stature.
Grateful to the people and Government of Ethiopia as well as Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for conferring upon me the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’ last evening. To be honoured by one of the world’s most ancient and rich civilisations is a matter of immense pride. This honour… pic.twitter.com/MWrdGwVFcI
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 17, 2025
While accepting the honour, Prime Minister of India expressed gratitude and dedicated his award to 140 crore (1.4 billion) people of India. He highlighted the deep historical links between India and Ethiopia. He also acknowledged the contribution of Indian professionals, particularly educators, who have played a meaningful role in the development of Ethiopia over the decades.
Reportedly, Ethiopia and India share historical relations that is anchored in strong people-to-people ties. The special gesture by the Ethiopian leadership is reflective of the importance of the two countries that attach to each other as Global South partners.
I’m honoured to be conferred with the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia.’ I dedicate it to the 140 crore people of India. https://t.co/qVFdWQgU9r
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
It was a historic moment for the nations and coincided with a major diplomatic breakthrough as India and Ethiopia has formally elevated their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership.
Notably, both the nations have agreed to deepen their cooperation by reflecting a common vision for long term partnership across:
- Trade
- Defence
- Technology
- Education
- Capacity Building
- People to People Exchanges
This honour signifies the expansion of diplomatic influence of India in Africa along with the strategic upgradation that reinforced the position of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a globally respected leader shaping partnerships across the Global South with trust, mutual respect and shared progress.