Ethiopia–India Partnership Gains Momentum through Landmark Agreements: Amb. Rai

Addis Ababa, December 27, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia and India have formally elevated their long-standing relations into a strategic partnership, anchored by concrete agreements, Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Anil Kumar Rai, told ENA.

In a recent interview, he highlighted that these agreements between the two historic nations cover key sectors including trade, health, technology, energy, and culture.

Ambassador Anil Kumar Rai noted that recent high-level engagements between Ethiopian and Indian leaders have established key cooperation frameworks, strengthened Ethiopia’s economic integration and advanced its role as an emerging hub for digital transformation in Africa.

Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held strategic talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Modi’s historic official visit to Ethiopia last week.

 In this context, Ambassador Rai described the relationship as a ‘natural partnership’ shaped by shared priorities in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

He noted that ties between the two countries continue to deepen, anchored in a joint commitment to global peace and security.

 “This partnership is mutually beneficial and makes a meaningful contribution to the international community,” he said.

Highlighting India’s role in Ethiopia’s financial sector reform, Rai said Indian supported digital financial technologies are helping modernize the country’s banking system.

The ambassador explained that the reforms are expanding access to banking services, enabling Ethiopians to open savings accounts, secure loans and explore investment opportunities previously out of reach.

One of the major outcomes of the engagement is a customs cooperation agreement aligned with Ethiopia’s preparations for accession to the World Trade Organization and its expanding role within the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“India aims to support Ethiopia in building efficient and modern customs systems, which are essential for trade competitiveness,” Rai said.

Health sector cooperation is also advancing, with a focus on infrastructure development and quality standards. The ambassador said Ethiopia is set to adopt the Indian Pharmacopoeia as a benchmark for local pharmaceutical production and regulation.

 “This will help reduce costs and ensure reliable access to quality medicines,” he noted.

 India is also supplying advanced medical equipment to Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Addis Ababa to strengthen maternal and child health services, alongside professional training and exchange programs.

Environmental and agricultural collaboration features prominently through the International Solar Alliance, supporting Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiative.

According to Rai, more than 2,000 solar powered water pumps will be distributed to farmers to enhance irrigation and agricultural productivity.

 Education and skills development remain a central pillar of the partnership. The ambassador said India continues to expand scholarship opportunities for Ethiopian professionals across a wide range of fields.

 “Graduates return with the capacity to create jobs, establish enterprises, and lead in the startup and IT sectors,” he said.

 People to people and cultural ties are also growing. Ethiopian Airlines now operates more than 40 weekly flights to India, while the Ethiopian Cultural Center in New Delhi has resumed operations.

 “Passengers experience Ethiopian hospitality from the moment they board, with traditional attire and local cuisine reflecting the country’s rich heritage,” Rai underscored.

 He added that Indian cinema and culture continue to enjoy strong resonance in Ethiopia, supported by cultural events, restaurants and language instruction facilitated by the Indian Embassy.

 The ambassador credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Ethiopia with accelerating bilateral engagement, describing it as a turning point that transformed relations into a strategic alliance built on mutual respect and shared ambition.

 Looking ahead, Rai said both countries are working toward a comprehensive roadmap focused on emerging technologies and expanded cooperation in global peacekeeping. “The potential of this partnership is vast, and our commitment to deepen it is unwavering,” he said.