(Translation BY BEREKET KIDANE)
Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Office of the Prime Minister
Dear brotherly people of Eritrea:
June 20 is a day to remember the heroes who fell fighting for Eritrea’s independence or in defense of its sovereignty. Sovereignty is achieved through the sacrifice of blood and limbs.
Nation building and the preservation of sovereignty are also given added weight by the honor accorded to the nation’s fallen heroes.
A people who forget their yesterday’s fallen heroes will never have present day or future heroes. As such, it is appropriate and weighty for the people and Government of Eritrea to honor their fallen heroes.
This year’s Eritrea’s Martyrs Day has an additional special quality to it. It is the one-year anniversary of the positive response given by the Government of Eritrea to the new Ethiopian government’s olive branch and call for peace.
As a result, Martyrs Day, in addition to commemorating the sacrifices of Eritrea’s fallen heroes, is also a day that ushered a new hopeful era for the two peoples.
Glory to Eritrea’s Martyrs!
Peace and Prosperity to the Eritrean People!
Best Wishes for a long and healthy life to President Isaias!
June 12, 2011 E.C
Original Message in Amharic
