Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred Ethiopia’s highest civilian award, 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 this prestigious honour.
This recognition marks PM Modi’s 28th top foreign State honour, reflecting India’s growing diplomatic stature, particularly in Africa and the Global South.
PM Narendra Modi Receives Ethiopia’s Highest Civilian Award – 28th Global Honour
About the Award
- Name: The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
- Status: Highest civilian honour of Ethiopia
- Purpose: Awarded for exceptional contributions to strengthening Ethiopia’s international partnerships and global standing
- Conferred By: Abiy Ahmed Ali, Prime Minister of Ethiopia
The award underscores Ethiopia’s appreciation of India’s role as a trusted global partner.
PM Modi’s Remarks
Accepting the honour, PM Modi described it as a moment of pride for all Indians, not just for himself.
He stated that the recognition belongs to the 140 crore people of India, whose trust and collective efforts have shaped India’s global image.
He also noted the special significance of being honoured by one of the world’s most ancient civilisations, highlighting the deep historical bonds between India and Ethiopia.
Historic First & 28th Global Honour
This honour is significant on two counts:
- PM Modi became the first global leader to receive Ethiopia’s highest civilian award
- It is his 28th international State honour, placing him among the most internationally recognised Indian leaders
Political observers have described the award as a reflection of India’s rising influence and PM Modi’s consistent leadership on the world stage.
Historical and Cultural Bonds Between India and Ethiopia
PM Modi highlighted the thousands of years of contacts and exchanges between India and Ethiopia, rooted in:
- Education
- Culture
- People-to-people ties
He especially acknowledged the contribution of Indian teachers and educators, who have played a vital role in Ethiopia’s education system over several decades. Even today, Indian faculty members continue to serve in Ethiopian universities, strengthening long-term goodwill.
Strategic Importance of Ethiopia
- Ethiopia hosts the headquarters of the African Union
- It is a key partner for India in Africa
- India–Ethiopia relations have now been elevated to a Strategic Partnership, expanding cooperation in diplomacy, development, and capacity building
Exam-Oriented Key Facts
- Award: The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
- Recipient: PM Narendra Modi
- Status: Highest civilian honour of Ethiopia
- First Global Leader to Receive: Yes
- Total Foreign Honours of PM Modi: 28
- Conferred By: Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Ali
- Venue: Addis Ababa
- Special Fact: Ethiopia hosts African Union headquarters
Question & Answer
Q1. PM Narendra Modi was conferred Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour during which visit?
(a) Nairobi
(b) Addis Ababa
(c) Johannesburg
(d) Cairo
Answer: Addis Ababa
Q2. What is the name of Ethiopia’s highest civilian award conferred on PM Modi?
(a) Order of Solomon
(b) Nile Star Award
(c) Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
(d) African Unity Medal
Answer: Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
Q3. Who conferred the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia on PM Modi?
(a) President of Ethiopia
(b) African Union Chairperson
(c) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali
(d) Ethiopian Parliament Speaker
Answer: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali
Q4. How many top foreign State honours has PM Modi received so far?
(a) 25
(b) 26
(c) 27
(d) 28
Answer: 28
Q5. Ethiopia hosts the headquarters of which international organisation?
(a) United Nations
(b) African Development Bank
(c) African Union
(d) ECOWAS
Answer: African Union
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