Addis Ababa, December 9, 2008 (Addis Ababa) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi reiterated that the endorsement of the national constitution has laid a firm ground to build the ‘New Ethiopia’ based on ensuring the rights and equality of all nations, nationalities, and peoples of the country.Ethiopia celebrated the ‘Third Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Day’ on Tuesday with various events at Meskel Square here in Addis Ababa City.
Speaking at the occasion, Meles said the day has a special and grand meaning to the peoples of Ethiopia that have marvelous and diversified cultural values and traditions.
The introduction of the federalist system of governance in Ethiopia has alleviated a threat of the country’s disintegration and builds strong national unity based on the equality and willingness of the nations, nationalities, and peoples of the country.
This year’s celebration of the day, which is held while all citizens of the nation are striving to build firm ground to ensure Ethiopia’s renascence, shall be an opportunity to reinvigorate efforts in upholding the gains registered in various sectors, Meles said.
The premier said the day also helps to commemorate the martyrs who passed away during the struggle toward ensuring the freedom and rights of the peoples of Ethiopia and in bringing about justice and democratic order across the country.
More than 76 nations, nationalities, and peoples of Ethiopia presented cultural shows as pert of the celebration, which is organized by the Oromia State Administration.
Chief of Oromia State Administration, Abadula Gemeda said on his part the day shall be a time when all peoples of the Ethiopia vow to renew commitments toward creating politically and economically unified community as per the national constitution.
Ethiopia, which is an ancient and historical land of over 80 nations, nationalities, and peoples, has a population size of over 73.9 million at present.
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