Ethiopia and India have taken a new step in strengthening their strategic partnership with the signing of a visa exemption agreement for diplomats and the launch of a highly sensitive data centre project for the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These initiatives are part of a broader framework of growing cooperation between the two countries, with bilateral trade for the 2024-2025 financial year reaching US$550 million.
On 15 January 2026, Ethiopia and India signed a major agreement on visa exemption for holders of diplomatic passports. Beyond the visa agreement, India and Ethiopia have also begun implementing a major project aimed at strengthening the technological capacities of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This project involves the construction of a highly secure data centre, which will eventually be fully managed by Ethiopia, although India will play a key role during the launch phase.
Ethiopia and India share far more than interests; we share common values. A commitment to sovereignty, human dignity and development that benefits all peoples.
Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister
Trade between Ethiopia and India reached approximately USD 550.19 million during the 2024–2025 fiscal year, with USD 73.38 million representing Ethiopian imports, according to data released by the Indian Embassy in Addis Ababa. This development highlights the importance of the recently signed agreement with India, which observers suggest establishes a new phase in the bilateral alliance. Furthermore, this partnership could be seen as a template for future collaborations between developing nations.
Ethiopia and India are moving together towards immense opportunities. Our histories are ancient and our roots deep, but the most crucial chapter of our journey remains to be written. Like India, we believe in the need to build our future on our own soil.
Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister
India is a crucial ally for Ethiopia, not just for its investments and collaboration in infrastructure but also for its vital support in Ethiopia’s successful bid to join BRICS. The Ethiopian government has publicly acknowledged and thanked India for its backing, recognizing the potential for this development to significantly influence Ethiopia’s future economic and political trajectory.
