Addis Ababa, Dec. 17 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament, becoming the 18th Parliament worldwide where he has delivered an address.

Recalling the civilizational ties between India and Ethiopia, the Prime Minister said both countries combine ancient wisdom with modern ambition. In this context, he noted that India's national song "Vande Mataram" and the Ethiopian national anthem both refer to their land as the mother.

Referring to the shared history of struggle, he highlighted the contribution of Indian soldiers who fought alongside Ethiopians for their liberation in 1941. He said it was an honour for him to pay tribute at the Adwa Victory Monument, which symbolizes the sacrifi...