Adwa Victory Symbol of Anti-Colonial Struggle: Russian Ambassador Terekhin

Addis Ababa March 1/2024 (ENA)The Victory of Adwa is a symbol of anti-colonial struggle that depicts national unity and cohesion in pursuit of common just goal, Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia Evgeny Terekhin said.

The Battle of Adwa, which culminated in defeating the colonial troops of Italy by Ethiopians 128 years ago, spear-headed anti-colonial resistance by Africans and the entire black people across the world.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Terekhin noted that the inspiration of the victory has overwhelmingly uplifted the struggle of black people for freedom and liberation across the world since 2 March, 1896. 

Extending his heartfelt congratulations to all Ethiopians for the 128th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa, Ambassador Terekhin underscored the significance of Adwa as a powerful symbol of  anti-colonial struggle.

“On this solemn day, I would like to express my sincerest wishes of wellbeing, peace and prosperity to all Ethiopians.” he said.

The ambassador also appreciated Prime Minister Abiy for personally making the decision to construct the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum as it has importance not only for national historical heritage but also for the entire African continent.

Furthermore, he pointed out that the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum serves as a poignant reminder to the current and future generations about the crucial nature of the anti-colonial struggle. 

“The Adwa Victory Memorial Museum serves as a reminder to current and future generations about the importance of the anti-colonial struggle, the need to confront modern neo-colonial practices that individual countries are trying to continue to implement in relation to Africa.” 

According to him, “the memory of the courageous struggle of Ethiopians is especially symbolic, which can serve as an example of how national unity and cohesion in the name of a common just goal can defeat the inertia of the neo-colonial thinking of the ruling elites of some countries in relation to the global South countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.” 

Moreover, Ambassador Terekhin emphasized the importance of celebrating this significant day amid the ongoing desire of certain countries to exploit nations worldwide through neo-colonial manifestations, which aim to limit the sovereignty of other countries across various spheres, including domestic and foreign policy, economics, and ideology.

Speaking about the various major projects such as the Unity Park, Entoto Park, Science Museum, Sheger Park & Friendship Square, Abrehot Library, and the recently inaugurated Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in the Ethiopian capital, the ambassador commended the Ethiopian leadership for “practical implementation the concept of Medemer. 

“There is no doubt that the new parks, museums and libraries opening in the country will make a significant contribution to the development of Ethiopia’s tourism industry and to a more complete understanding of the rich historical and cultural heritage of the country by foreign partners,” he said.

Ambassador Terekhin added that all these projects are a symbol of the progressive and dynamic development, aspirations for the future of Ethiopia and Addis Ababa as a diplomatic capital of the African continent.