The long-standing relationship of Africa and India has evolved from a shared anti-colonial struggle to a broad cooperation on political, economic, and social dimensions. India’s support for the inclusion of the African Union in the G-20 during its presidency is a testament to its dedication to global inclusivity. This move not only enhances Africa’s representation in major international forums but also underscores the strong and enduring relationship between Africa and India.
Moreover, since its inception in 2008, the past three India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) significantly contributed to the political and diplomatic ties between the two. The 4th IAF which will be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is expected to further bolster the relationship between Africa and India
Ethiopia, one of Africa’s oldest nations, has had a relationship with India that extends over 2,000 years. This connection began in the 1st century AD with trade, where Indian merchants exchanged silk and spices for gold and ivory. After gaining independence, Ethiopia was the first African country to officially recognise India and establish an Embassy in New Delhi in 1948. Over time; this deep-rooted connection has grown to include significant cooperation on multilateral initiatives, education and capacity building, investment, and trade.
On multilateral platforms, Ethiopia and India collaborate to promote inclusivity and support each other’s agendas of mutual interest. Both countries are committed to enhancing the representation and benefits of the Global South in international forums.
India’s support for Ethiopia to join BRICS reflects the strength and breadth of this relationship and a shared commitment to mutual progress. Ethiopia’s entry into this key partnership platform highlights its valuable multilateral contributions to advancing international peace and security, and dedication to South-South cooperation. The Indian government’s support for Ethiopia’s invitation and membership in BRICS is crucial and underscores the importance of this collaboration.
In terms of education and capacity-building cooperation, Ethiopia’s modern educational development began with the arrival of Indian teachers during Emperor Haile Selassie’s era. This gesture of goodwill has continued over the years, and in 2007, the two countries formalized their cooperation with the Educational Exchange Program. This agreement has facilitated student exchanges, the transfer of academic expertise, and the promotion of new technologies. Currently, over 300 Ethiopian students are pursuing PhDs, and many others are engaged in undergraduate and postgraduate studies in India, highlighting India’s significant contribution to education in Ethiopia.
In addition, the strong diplomatic ties between India and Ethiopia are mirrored in their growing economic connections. India is Ethiopia’s second-largest foreign investor, with over 650 Indian companies already operating and additional companies planning to establish operations across various sectors. These investments contribute to job creation, technology transfer and sustainable development. Bilateral trade between the two nations has flourished, approaching USD 3 billion, making India Ethiopia’s second-largest trading partner. This further highlights the robust economic relationship between Ethiopia and India.
With the existing strong bilateral diplomatic ties and growing economic cooperation, there is significant potential for further collaboration, particularly in the economic sector. Ethiopia, with its abundant resources, strategic location, and status as one of the fastest-growing economies globally and the 3rd largest economy in sub-Saharan Africa, a member of the African Free Trade Market Area (AFCFTA) and BRICS offers numerous opportunities for Indian businesses and investors to explore and capitalize on.
To conclude, Ethiopia and India are set to further enhance their relations in a more broad and inclusive way, while working together to drive significant change on the global stage.
H.E. Bizunesh Meseret, CDA & DHM, Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in India
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