ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Ambassador Theshantha Kumarasiri of Sri Lanka emphasized the significance of the Victory of Adwa as a pivotal moment in Ethiopian history that must be shared with future generations. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Sri Lankan envoy to Ethiopia articulated his view that the historical event not only represents a proud chapter from the past but also serves as a catalyst for positive energy towards the nation’s economic development.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Victory of Adwa transcends its historical context, offering lessons in resilience and unity that can propel Ethiopia towards further economic progress. He remarked on the absence of animosity between Ethiopia and Italy today, highlighting the ongoing collaboration with Italy, the European Union, and the broader international community as evidence of how past conflicts have transformed into productive relationships.
The ambassador’s insights reflect a broader perspective on the importance of leveraging historical victories like Adwa to foster unity and cooperation not only within Ethiopia but across Africa. Despite the continent’s diversity and the challenges of overcoming divisions, Kumarasiri advocated for the spirit of Adwa to inspire collaborative efforts towards common goals.
The annual commemoration of the Adwa Victory, which marks Ethiopia’s defeat of Italian forces in 1896 under Emperor Menelik II, was celebrated across the nation with a sense of pride and reflection. The recent inauguration of the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum further cements the legacy of this event, honoring the bravery of Ethiopians in their struggle against colonial ambitions and serving as a beacon of pride, unity, and resilience for both Ethiopia and Africa.
Ambassador Kumarasiri’s message underscores the enduring relevance of the Adwa Victory, advocating for its commemoration as a source of inspiration for economic development, international engagement, and the unity of future generations.
