Prime Minister Narendra Modi planted a sapling at the Ethiopian Parliament as part of India’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative. He also addressed a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament, extending India’s greetings of friendship and goodwill. Invoking Mahatma Gandhi’s idea of trusteeship, Modi emphasized that humanity holds the planet in trust for future generations. He noted that India’s tree-planting initiative aligns with Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to environmental protection. Highlighting the historic ties between the two countries, he described India and Ethiopia as “one family” and natural partners, with Ethiopia at Africa’s crossroads and India at the heart of the Indian Ocean.

In a social media post, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said: “PM Modi planted a sapling at the Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives, as part of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam and Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiative. Two nations, two traditions, one shared promise to honour our Mother Earth and build a greener future.”

Modi also highlighted India and Ethiopia’s shared vision for the Global South, emphasizing fair development, accessible technology, sovereignty, shared prosperity, and peace. He drew parallels between the constitutions of the two nations, noting that both place the people at the centre of national destiny.

The Prime Minister paid tribute to the contributions of Indian teachers in Ethiopia, who have played a key role in the country’s development. Earlier, he visited the Adwa Victory Monument and the Adwa Museum, honoring Ethiopia’s historic struggle for freedom and sovereignty. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described Modi’s visit to Adwa as a tribute to Ethiopia’s heroes and Africa’s enduring legacy of dignity and resilience.

After addressing Parliament, Modi interacted with its members and expressed that Ethiopia’s rich history and culture inspire admiration. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties based on shared values, mutual trust, and a common vision for peace, development, and cooperation.

In a social media post, Modi wrote: “It was a great honour and privilege to address the Ethiopian Parliament this morning. Ethiopia’s rich history, culture and spirit inspire deep respect and admiration. I conveyed India’s commitment to further strengthening our partnership, guided by shared values, mutual trust and a common vision for peace, development and cooperation.”