India's Global Rise: How Modi's Ethiopia Visit Signals a New Era

The Indian community in Ethiopia is buzzing with excitement ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit. They view this as a landmark moment set to open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. Business leaders highlight the strong foundation of Indian investment, with nearly 180 companies operating successfully in the country. The visit is expected to further boost economic engagement and strengthen the centuries-old partnership between these two key Global South nations.

Key Points: Modi Ethiopia Visit Heralds New Chapter for Indian Diaspora

  • Indian diaspora sees visit as pivotal for deepening trade and strategic ties between the two nations
  • Nearly 180 Indian companies are major investors across Ethiopia's key economic sectors
  • Both nations are aligned as important voices of the Global South within forums like BRICS
  • The community hopes for eased business conditions and stronger people-to-people connections
2 min read

India emerges as a global player under PM Modi: Indian diaspora in Ethiopia

Indian diaspora in Ethiopia hails PM Modi's landmark visit, foreseeing a major boost to bilateral trade, investment, and strategic Global South cooperation.

"“Business ties have grown steadily... the Prime Minister’s visit will lead to strong outcomes in trade and investment.” – Mayur Kothari, Founder & CEO, Mohan Group"

Addis Ababa, Dec 16

As India steadily strengthens its position as a global economic and political player under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian community in Ethiopia on Tuesday saw his upcoming visit as a landmark moment for bilateral ties.

After many years, an Indian Prime Minister will be visiting Ethiopia, and the Indian diaspora believes the visit will open a new chapter in trade, investment and strategic cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking to IANS, Indian businessman Mayur Kothari, Founder and CEO of the Mohan Group of Companies, said the visit is deeply significant given the centuries-old civilisational relationship between India and Ethiopia.

“Business ties have grown steadily over the years and expressed confidence that the Prime Minister’s visit will lead to strong outcomes in trade and investment,” Kothari said.

According to him, both countries are important voices of the Global South and partners in platforms such as BRICS, making deeper economic engagement a natural next step.

“Indian investment already plays a major role in Ethiopia’s economy,” he said.

“India is among the top sources of foreign direct investment in the country, with nearly 170–180 Indian companies operating across manufacturing, agriculture and infrastructure,” Kothari explained.

“Many of these firms have performed well and have even been recognised by the Ethiopian Prime Minister for their contribution as responsible taxpayers, a moment of pride for the Indian business community,” he mentioned.

Other members of the Indian diaspora echoed similar optimism. Indian Business Forum Co-Convenor Rajeev Sharma said India and Ethiopia share many similarities, especially in demographics, with a large and youthful population. This, he said, creates strong potential for long-term cooperation and shared growth.

Amit Kumar Sinha, CEO of Silafrica Ethiopia Industries PLC, stressed the importance of quality investment and good management.

“Well-run industries not only succeed commercially but also generate large-scale employment, benefiting the broader economy,” Sinha noted.

For smaller business owners, too, the Prime Minister’s visit carries emotional and economic significance.

Sunil Shrivastava, owner of Radha’s Indian Restaurant in Addis Ababa, said the Indian community feels proud and excited.

Having done business in Ethiopia for over 15 years, he said the diaspora hopes the visit will further ease business conditions and strengthen people-to-people ties.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
Very encouraging news. Africa is the future, and India is building strong, respectful partnerships there based on mutual growth, not exploitation. The focus on the Global South and BRICS is the right strategy. Hope this leads to more opportunities for young professionals from both countries.
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Rajesh Q
While the diplomatic outreach is good, I hope the government also focuses on easing the actual hurdles for small business owners like Mr. Shrivastava. Sometimes the paperwork and regulations from our own Indian ministries can be a bigger challenge than the host country's! Practical support is key.
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Amit Kumar
As someone who has worked in East Africa, this is spot on. Indian companies are respected for quality and for treating local employees well. This visit will build on that goodwill. Jai Hind!
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Kavya N
It's heartwarming to read about Radha's Indian Restaurant. Our culture and cuisine are also our ambassadors. This is not just about big investments, but about people-to-people connections. More cultural exchanges would be wonderful!
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David E
Interesting read from an Indian perspective. The focus on "quality investment" and being "responsible taxpayers" is a strong, positive narrative that contrasts with other foreign investors. Smart diplomacy.

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