Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the Adwa Victory Monument in Addis Ababa on Wednesday, marking the second day of his two-day official visit to Ethiopia.
The gesture symbolised India’s respect for Ethiopia’s historic struggle for independence and its enduring legacy of resistance against colonialism.
The Adwa Victory Monument is a contemporary complex that commemorates the 1896 Battle of Adwa, a defining moment in African history when Ethiopian forces defeated Italian invaders, safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
Historians and scholars have long regarded the victory as a powerful symbol of Pan-African resistance and pride.
Visit to Adwa Museum
Following the wreath-laying ceremony, Prime Minister Modi visited the Adwa Museum, where officials briefed him on the rich history of Ethiopia and the broader significance of the Battle of Adwa.
The complex houses a museum displaying artefacts, weapons and detailed dioramas that chronicle the historic battle.
Beyond its museum, the site functions as a cultural and intellectual hub, featuring conference halls, an amphitheatre and a library. It also serves as a tourist destination and a research centre dedicated to Ethiopian heritage and the global struggle against colonialism.
As part of his engagements in Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Modi will address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Ethiopia, marking a significant moment in parliamentary diplomacy between the two nations. The address is expected to further strengthen political dialogue and mutual understanding.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Ethiopia on Tuesday to a rousing welcome, marking an important leg of his official overseas visit.
The visit is taking place at the invitation of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and reflects the growing strategic and diplomatic importance of India–Ethiopia relations.
Warm Welcome and Community Interaction
In a notable personal gesture, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali himself drove Prime Minister Modi from the airport to the hotel.
During the drive, he also showed the Indian Prime Minister the Science Museum and Friendship Park in Addis Ababa, an initiative that was not part of the original itinerary, according to sources.
Members of the Indian community in Ethiopia extended a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Prime Minister Modi upon his arrival at the hotel, reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.
During the visit, Ethiopia conferred its highest civilian honour, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, on Prime Minister Modi. He expressed deep gratitude to the government and people of Ethiopia for the recognition.
Prime Minister Modi invited Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali to attend the AI Impact Summit and the BRICS Summit, both scheduled to be hosted by India in 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs said.
These invitations underscore India’s commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation and deepening its partnership with Ethiopia.
Also Read: PM Modi Calls On Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Ali To Join AI Impact & BRICS Meets
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