Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Ethiopia’s highest national honour. The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, during his official visit to Addis Ababa. With this, PM Modi became the first global Head of State or Head of Government to receive the prestigious award, underlining India’s growing diplomatic stature, particularly in Africa and the Global South. This honour is the 28th top foreign State award given upon to PM Modi, reflecting sustained international recognition of India’s leadership and its expanding global engagement.
About the Award
- The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia is the highest civilian honour of the country.
- It is awarded for exceptional contributions to strengthening Ethiopia’s international partnerships and global standing.
- The award was formally conferred by Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali, who personally hosted PM Modi and led the ceremonial proceedings.
PM Modi’s Remarks
- Accepting the honour, PM Modi described it as a moment of pride, not just for him personally, but for all Indians.
- He stated that the recognition belongs to the countless Indians whose trust, contributions, and efforts have shaped India–Ethiopia relations.
- He emphasised that being honoured by one of the world’s most ancient and prosperous civilisations holds special significance and dedicated the award to 140 crore people of India.
Historic First and 28th Global Honour
- With this award, PM Modi has achieved two notable milestones.
- He became the first global leader to receive Ethiopia’s highest honour, and the award also became his 28th international State honour, placing him among the most internationally recognised Indian leaders.
- Political observers and the BJP described the recognition as a reflection of India’s rising global stature and PM Modi’s steady and respected leadership on the world stage.
Historical and Cultural Bonds
- PM Modi underlined that India and Ethiopia have shared contacts and exchanges for thousands of years, rooted in education, culture, and people to people ties.
- He especially lauded the role of Indian teachers and educators, who have contributed significantly to Ethiopia’s education system over decades.
- Even today, several Indian faculty members continue to serve in Ethiopian universities and higher education institutions, strengthening long-term goodwill between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi received Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour – The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia.
- He is the first global Head of State or Government to receive this award.
- This is PM Modi’s 28th top foreign State honour.
- Award was conferred by Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Ali.
- India–Ethiopia relations elevated to a Strategic Partnership.
- Ethiopia hosts the African Union headquarters.
Question
Q. Which award was conferred on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his official visit to Ethiopia?
(A) Order of the Star of Ethiopia
(B) The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
(C) Ethiopian Civilian Medal of Merit
(D) Africa Friendship Award