Addis Ababa, June 21, 2024 (FBC) – The Portuguese Embassy in Ethiopia has confirmed that it is working to bring Portuguese professional athletes to Ethiopia for the upcoming 80th anniversary celebration of Mechal Sports Club.
This story was disclosed by the Ministry of Defense following a meeting between Portuguese Ambassador to Ethiopia Luisa Fragoso and State Minister of Culture and Sports Ambassador Mesfin Cherrnet. The two officials also took the opportunity to visit the Mechal Sports Club facilities in Addis Ababa.
During her visit, Ambassador Luisa Fragoso expressed her admiration for the club’s reputation in athletics and her delight in witnessing other sports practiced under the club’s umbrella.
She pointed out that cycling is widely popular in Portugal, her country is committed to providing the necessary support to Mechal SC if it decides to set up a cycling sports project.
The Portuguese envoy stated that she will work to strengthen the relationship between Ethiopia and Portugal through sports, tourism.
On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Mechal sports team, she confirmed that her Embassy is working to have Portuguese professional sportspeople come to Ethiopia to attend the celebrations and participate in sporting events.
Additionally, Ambassador Fragoso mentioned that they will also participate in the street run on June 30, 2024.
She expressed her belief that the history of Mechal SC is encouraging, and her embassy is ready to contribute in bringing the team to a better level.
State Minister Mesfin Chernet, on his part, said that the Ministry of Culture and Sports will provide the necessary support for the 80th anniversary of Mechal Sports Club, the source of many legendary Ethiopian athletes.
Note that Mechal SC is gearing up to mark its 80th anniversary this later this month. The football side of Mechal SC is also in contention for the 2023/24 Ethiopian Premier League title with 54 points, only three points behind league leaders Commercial Bank of Ethiopia FC.