Watch: PM Modi enjoys Ethiopian singers’ rendition of Vande Mataram
Prime Minister Modi's Ethiopia visit highlighted strengthening India-Africa ties. A unique cultural moment saw Ethiopian singers perform "Vande Mataram" at a banquet, deeply moving Modi.
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New Delhi: A diplomatic visit steeped in cultural warmth and strategic intent saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed to Ethiopia with a truly unique gesture: a soulful rendition of India's national song, "Vande Mataram," performed by Ethiopian singers. This moving moment occurred at a special banquet hosted by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Addis Ababa for a two-day State visit at the invitation of his Ethiopian counterpart on Tuesday. In a remarkable display of bilateral warmth and respect, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali personally received PM Modi at the airport. He even drove him to his hotel, a rare gesture showing the high regard for the Indian leader and the significance of the visit.
PM Modi claps for Ethopian artists
The evening's highlight was the special dinner and musical program on Tuesday. Beyond the culinary delights, the cultural exchange reached its crescendo when Ethiopian artists performed "Vande Mataram." Prime Minister Modi, visibly touched by the performance, was seen clapping for the artists.
"At yesterday’s banquet dinner hosted by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, a wonderful rendition of Vande Mataram was sung by Ethiopian singers. It was a deeply moving moment, that too at a time when we are marking 150 years of Vande Mataram," PM Modi later posted on X, sharing a video of the performance.
PM Modi's past visit to African countries
Over the past 11 years, PM Modi has actively worked to elevate these ties to a "new level of strategic partnership." This commitment has seen a significant acceleration in engagement with Africa over the last year alone, revitalising diplomatic and developmental connections across the continent.
Prime Minister Modi's strategic outreach has included a series of impactful visits to key African nations, exemplifying India's focus on fostering robust partnerships. These recent engagements, which have played a crucial role in deepening bilateral relations, include Ethiopia (the current visit), South Africa, Ghana, Namibia, Mauritius, and Nigeria in 2024.