Ethiopia PM Personally Drives Modi, Makes Unplanned Stop At Historic Landmark
Ethiopia’s prime minister personally drives PM Modi, making a surprise detour highlighting warmth in India-Africa relations.
In a gesture that has drawn widespread attention, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed personally drove Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the airport, making an unexpected detour to a culturally significant location not listed in the official itinerary. The rare diplomatic moment highlighted the growing warmth and personal rapport between the two leaders.
PM Modi arrived in Addis Ababa as part of a high-level diplomatic visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between India and Ethiopia. Instead of following the scheduled route, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took the wheel himself, escorting Modi through the streets of the Ethiopian capital. During the drive, the Ethiopian leader made an unscheduled stop at a historically and culturally important site, described by officials as a symbol of Ethiopia’s heritage and resilience.
According to diplomatic sources, the detour was meant to offer PM Modi a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich history and spiritual legacy. The leaders briefly paused at the site, where PM Abiy explained its significance and role in Ethiopia’s national identity. The moment was informal, personal, and far removed from the rigid protocols typically associated with state visits.
Photos and videos from the drive quickly circulated on social media, with many observers praising the gesture as a powerful symbol of trust and friendship. Analysts say such moments can have a strong impact on diplomatic relations, often conveying goodwill more effectively than formal statements or joint press conferences.
The unexpected detour also reflects the deepening partnership between India and Ethiopia. Over recent years, the two countries have expanded cooperation in trade, defense, education, agriculture, and technology. India is one of Ethiopia’s largest investors, particularly in manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, while Ethiopia serves as a strategic gateway for India’s engagement with Africa.
Officials familiar with the visit said the spontaneous act was appreciated by the Indian delegation, signaling a personal connection that goes beyond official diplomacy. PM Modi later described the experience as “memorable” and praised Ethiopia’s hospitality and cultural richness during interactions with local leaders.
Diplomatic experts note that personal gestures between world leaders can play a meaningful role in strengthening international ties. Such interactions often build trust, ease negotiations, and create lasting impressions that shape long-term cooperation.
The visit continued with scheduled meetings, including discussions on expanding economic partnerships, boosting people-to-people connections, and supporting development initiatives across Africa. Joint statements are expected to focus on shared democratic values, South-South cooperation, and global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development.
As India continues to deepen its engagement with African nations, moments like this unplanned drive underscore the importance of personal diplomacy in global relations. The episode has been widely viewed as a reminder that behind formal statecraft, human connections still matter.