The obelisk looted from Ethiopia in 1937 by invading soldiers of fascist Italia was returned a couple of years ago from Rome.

The announcement came on Friday during a meeting held in Axum town to discuss aspects of the inauguration of the Axum Obelisk re-erection project. "The re-erected obelisk will be unveilled not only colorfully ceremoniously, but also through promotional and educative programs," said Authority director general Jarra Hailemariam.

As part of the celebrations, he said, authorities at all levels and the grassroots population would be reminded of the significance of coordinated moves to ensuring the preservation of the country's antiques.

In attendance at the discussion were representatives of the federal millennium festival secretariat, members of the millennium committee of the Tigray State, President of the Tigray State Government, zonal and woreda administrators as well as mayors of the towns of Axum and Adwa.

The unveilling will be accompanied by a number of events including a photographic exhibition, literature and fine arts displays and other befitting shows.

An award ceremony will also be held to recognize individuals and organization who contributed to the return and re-erection campaigns.

Chief of the Tigray State Government on the occasion said preparations have already begun for the reception of prominent individuals, diplomats and journalists expected to witness the unveilling.

Participants of the discussion had made a trip to the re-erection site. The re-erection project was launched two weeks ago.

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