45th Anniversary of Victory of Karamara celebrated at Ethiopia-Cuba Friendship Park
Addis Ababa March 5, 2023 (FBC) – The 45th Anniversary of the Victory of Karamara has been celebrated at the Ethiopia-Cuba Friendship Park at the capital in the presence of members of the diplomatic community, high government officials, veterans, and residents of Addis.
The Celebration of the Karamara Victory day commemorates the victory Ethiopian Defense force over the invading army of Siad Barre of Somalia in 1975.
Cuba under the leadership of Fidel Castro sent around 15,000 soldiers who fought alongside the Ethiopian army against the invading forces of Somalia.
Ethiopian troops, with the internationalist support of the Cuban combatants, defeated the aggressors ordered by the then leader of Somalia against the territorial integrity of Ethiopia. 163 Cuban combatants offered their lives for the sovereignty of Ethiopia.
Since then Ethiopians honor the historical support of the Cuban people while celebrating the victory day.
Addressing the participants in his opening remarks, Ambassador of Cuba to Ethiopia, Jorge Lefebre Nicolás said the sacrifice paid by Cuban soldiers at the battle became a strong foundation for the relations of brotherhood and solidarity between the Cuban and Ethiopian peoples.
Saying that the diplomatic relationship between Ethiopia and Cuba started in 1975, Ambassador Jorge Lefebre Nicolás stated that the historical ties between the two countries got strength from the historic military cooperation in 1975, and has continued in multifaceted areas.
The Ambassador has also reiterated the commitment of his country to transform its historical and longstanding partnership with Ethiopia.
Hirut Kassaw, Minister, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, on her part, said Ethiopia is a country that has defended its sovereignty from many attempts of invasion by outsiders through the sacrifices of brave sons and daughters.
Saying that Ethiopia always remembers the support it received from sister countries at times of need, she lauded the support of Cuba in defending the invasion of Siad Barre.
By : Yonathan Yoseph