India and Ethiopia share one of the oldest and most enduring relationships in Africa, marked by over two millennia of historical, cultural and people-to-people linkages. From ancient trade routes during the Axumite Empire to contemporary cooperation in diplomacy, development and global governance, the partnership has steadily evolved into a multifaceted strategic engagement.
Ancient Ties and Early Diplomacy
Historical records trace India-Ethiopia connections back nearly 2,000 years, when Indian traders exchanged silk and spices for gold and ivory through the ancient port of Adulis. Over centuries, Indians – particularly from Goa and later from Gujarat – played a role in Ethiopia’s social and economic life. Indian soldiers also formed a significant part of British forces that helped liberate Ethiopia from Italian occupation during the Second World War.
Formal diplomatic relations were established soon after India’s independence. A goodwill mission led by Sardar Sant Singh visited Ethiopia, and full diplomatic ties were set up in 1950, with Sant Singh becoming India’s first Ambassador to Ethiopia.
High-Level Political Engagement
Political engagement between the two countries has intensified in recent years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed have met regularly on the sidelines of major global summits, including the BRICS and G20 meetings, and have held discussions on expanding cooperation in technology, skilling, trade, defence, agriculture and people-to-people exchanges. Ethiopia has also actively participated in India-led initiatives such as the Voice of the Global South Summits.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has visited Addis Ababa multiple times, holding talks with Ethiopia’s leadership on bilateral cooperation, regional developments and multilateral coordination, particularly within the African Union and the United Nations. Foreign Office Consultations between the two countries continue to provide a structured platform to review and expand ties across sectors.
Growing Strategic and Development Partnership
India-Ethiopia cooperation spans a wide range of areas, including defence, health, education, science and technology, renewable energy and capacity building. The two sides signed a defence cooperation agreement in 2025, marking a milestone in their security partnership. India has also supported Ethiopia through training programmes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) framework, parliamentary capacity-building initiatives and scholarships.
Development cooperation has remained a key pillar, with India contributing to infrastructure, agriculture and skill development projects. Ethiopia’s participation in global initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance further reflects shared priorities in sustainable development.
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a global, treaty-based organization launched by India and France in 2015 to promote solar energy, aiming to unlock $1 trillion in investments by 2030 for massive solar deployment, improve energy access, and drive the global energy transition. Headquartered in India, it unites solar resource-rich countries, making solar power a key to sustainable development and climate action through finance mobilization, technology sharing, capacity building, and innovation.
Trade and Economic Relations
India is Ethiopia’s second-largest trading partner. Bilateral trade during 2024–25 stood at around USD 550 million, with Indian exports – ranging from pharmaceuticals and machinery to steel and chemicals – dominating the trade basket. Imports from Ethiopia include pulses, leather, spices, flax yarn and precious stones. Both sides continue to explore opportunities to diversify trade and enhance investment flows.
Institutional and Multilateral Engagement
India and Ethiopia have signed a wide range of agreements covering trade, investment protection, science and technology, education, culture, taxation, defence and digital public infrastructure. Regular parliamentary exchanges, joint trade committees and sector-specific dialogues further strengthen institutional cooperation.
Ethiopia, home to the African Union headquarters, remains a key partner for India’s engagement with Africa. Preparations for the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit have seen frequent high-level interactions and consultations in Addis Ababa and New Delhi.
Cultural Bonds and People-to-People Links
Cultural diplomacy continues to play a vital role in bilateral ties. Cultural Cooperation Year 2025 saw a series of events in Ethiopia, including celebrations of Indian festivals, yoga sessions, literary and cultural programmes, and environmental initiatives. The Indian community – estimated at around 2,500 – remains deeply integrated into Ethiopian society, particularly in the education sector, where Indian teachers and faculty have made lasting contributions.
Looking Ahead
With strong historical roots, expanding political engagement and growing cooperation in trade, defence, development and culture, India-Ethiopia relations are poised for further growth. As both countries work together on regional stability, South-South cooperation and global challenges, their partnership continues to serve as a bridge between Asia and Africa – anchored in shared values and mutual aspirations for inclusive development.
