The relationship between Ethiopia and India has deep historical roots that date back more than 2,000 years. This enduring connection began during the ancient Axumite Empire in the 1st century AD when Ethiopian traders established commercial links with India through the ancient port of Adulis. At the time, Ethiopia imported silk and spices from India while exporting gold and ivory. These early exchanges laid a foundation for a relationship that continues to grow and evolve today.

Soon after India gained independence, diplomatic relations at the legation level were established in 1948, followed by the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1950. Ethiopia became the first African nation to open an embassy in New Delhi, a move that symbolized the significance of the relationship. Over the years, Ethiopia and India have built upon these foundations, signing over 20 cooperation and partnership agreements. These agreements reflect the nations’ shared commitment to deepening their relations in various fields.

Recent developments have further strengthened these ties. In August 2023, Ethiopian Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed and Indian Prime Minister H.E. NarendraModi met during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in a range of areas, including parliamentary exchanges, development partnerships, capacity building, trade, investment, defense, information and communication technology, agriculture, and people-to-people connections. Both leaders reaffirmed their desire to work together to foster mutual economic growth and enhance trust between their nations.

Furthering this collaboration, Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed participated in the 2nd Voice of the Global South Summit, held virtually in November 2023. The theme, “Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust,” underscored the importance of inclusive development.

On the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Ambassador TayeAtske-Selassie met with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. SubrahmanyamJaishankar, and discussed on key bilateral and multilateral issues, reaffirming the importance of continued collaboration on global and regional challenges.

The relationship between Ethiopia and India has been further enriched by cultural exchanges. Since the signing of a cultural agreement in 1983, various cultural events have been hosted in both countries that showcase the richness of their respective traditions. A recent highlight of these efforts was the participation of a 16-member Ethiopian cultural troupe in the India International Folk Festival, organized by the ICCR, in Shillong, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Chandigarh from November 22 to December 4, 2023.

Education has also played a pivotal role in fostering closer ties between the two countries. Each year, the Indian government offers technical training to numerous Ethiopian professionals across various fields, supporting Ethiopia’s capacity-building initiatives. This exchange of knowledge has deepened the relationship between the two nations, with Ethiopian and Indian universities establishing partnerships in fields of mutual interest.

Ethiopian Airlines has been instrumental in bolstering air connectivity between Ethiopia and India, significantly enhancing opportunities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange. The airline operates regular flights to major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, making travel between the two nations more convenient and accessible. This direct air connection has not only facilitated easier movement for professionals, students, and tourists but has also boosted trade and investment opportunities. Ethiopian Airlines’ expanding network continues to strengthen the bilateral relationship by connecting Ethiopia with one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.

The economic and commercial relations are the key pillars of the relationship between Ethiopia and India. In terms of trade, the two countries have established a strong bilateral relationship, with trade volume reaching 2 billion USD (2022 report). Based on Ethiopia importer data, primary and semi-finished iron and steel products, drugs and pharmaceuticals, machinery, instruments and sugar are among India’s major exports to Ethiopia. Whereas; pulses, sesame, and oil seeds, precious and semi-precious stone, vegetables, leather and leather products and spices are Ethiopia’s primary export to India.

India’s businesses ranks among the top largest foreign investors in Ethiopia by investing in a range of sectors, such as agriculture (cotton, horticulture, floriculture, bio- fuel, soya bean, edible oil crops, dairy farm), manufacturing (garment and textile, leather and leather products, pharmaceuticals, metal, paper and printing), mining, consultancy, etc. These investments have not only contributed to Ethiopia’s economic growth but also created job opportunities and helped improve local capacities in key industries. The Ethiopian government has been actively encouraging Indian businesses to invest in the country, offering huge and untapped investment opportunities with lucrative incentive packages fiscal and non- fiscal incentives. Agriculture (coffee, cereals, oilseeds, dairy, poultry, horticulture, floriculture, bamboo, etc), manufacturing (textile, leather, pharmaceuticals, agro-processing- fruit juice and edible oil), ICT/IT, mining, and tourism are priority investment sectors. There are also emerging sectors such as energy, health, education, transportation and logistics, etc.This conducive environment has fostered strong business ties and encouraged further Indian participation in Ethiopia’s economy.

The evolving partnership between Ethiopia and India highlights the significance of historical ties, mutual trust, and shared aspirations for a prosperous future. As both nations continue to deepen their engagement across various sectors, the potential for collaborative growth remains immense. We invite business communities to seize the opportunities available in Ethiopia, a country rich in resources and potential for investment. Additionally, we encourage tourists to visit Ethiopia, the “Land of Origins”, to explore its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming people.

Embassy of Ethiopia in New Delhi.