Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: India Relations with other Nations, Issue: India–Ethiopia Relations.
Context:
The multifaceted relationship between India and Ethiopia, highlighting the historical ties, current opportunities, and potential for future collaboration.
Key Highlights:
Strategic Importance of Ethiopia:
Ethiopia’s relevance stems from five structural factors:
- Demographic scale: ~109 million population (2024)
- Economic potential: Among Africa’s fastest-growing economies
- Geographic location: Horn of Africa, Proximity to Red Sea trade routes
- Political centrality: Headquarters of the African Union
- Energy potential: Hydropower-driven renewable energy powerhouse
Despite being landlocked, Ethiopia is seeking diversified access via Djibouti, Somaliland, and Eritrea, reflecting its desire for strategic autonomy.
Political Transition & Strategic Window:
- Ethiopia is emerging from years of civil conflict and fragmentation
- Current focus: National reconciliation, State rebuilding.
- Economic stabilisation under IMF conditionalities
Such post-conflict phases historically offer windows for trusted partners to shape institutions, norms, and long-term alignment.
India’s advantage: Non-interventionist, Development-oriented and historically trusted partner.
Historical India-Ethiopia Foundations:
- Education diplomacy: Indian teachers and large Ethiopian student/phD flows build elite goodwill.
- Cultural trust: Long-term influence surpassing transactional partnerships.
- Digital cooperation: Pan-Africa e-Network pilot and IIT Delhi tele-education demonstrate tech diplomacy.
Ethiopia’s BRICS Membership: Strategic Implications
Trade, Connectivity & Regional Integration:
AfCFTA Leverage:
- Ethiopia’s role in African Continental Free Trade Area offers access to: East African, Continental African markets
- Ethiopia can serve as India’s manufacturing and export hub in Africa.
Trade Facilitation:
- India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme supports Ethiopian exports
- Can incentivise Indian export-oriented manufacturing investments
Way Forward: Strategic Recommendations
- Institutionalise regular strategic dialogue mechanisms.
- Leverage BRICS, G-20 and South–South platforms for convergence.
- Update DTAA and Bilateral Investment Treaty.
India–Ethiopia ties are at a historic inflection point, shaped by Ethiopia’s political transition, its BRICS membership, and India’s rising global stature. With strategic intent and targeted reforms, this partnership can emerge as one of India’s most consequential engagements in Africa.
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