NUEW and General Sudanese Women’s Association conclude protocol agreement

Asmara, 15 September 2014 – The National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) and the General Association of Sudanese Women yesterday concluded Protocol Agreement at Asmara Palace Hotel here in the capital.

Ms. Leul Gebreab, Chairperson of the NUEW, while Dr. Iqbal Ja’efer Al-Hussein signed the accord on the side of the General Association of Sudanese Women. The agreement pertains to fostering cooperation in the domain of education and health.
Both women’s organizations signed a similar agreement in 2007.

Eritrean-Japanese Joint Consultative Meeting on economic domain Conducted

Asmara, 16 September 2014 – Eritrean-Japanese Consultative Meeting on cooperation of partnership in the economic domain was conducted yesterday at Asmara Palace Hotel.

On the Eritrean side, experts headed by Mr. Gergis Teklemichael, Minister of National Development, also comprising  experts from the Ministries of Education, Agriculture, Health, Labor and Human Welfare, Energy and Mines, as well as Foreign Affairs took part. Present on the Japanese side were the delegation headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Minoru Kiuchi. The two sides mapped out action plan that would back up the implementation of the resolutions adopted by the Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD-V).

It is to be recalled that the Japanese government delegation headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Minoru Kiuchi earlier held discussion with President Isaias Afwerki.

Japanese government expresses readiness to foster partnership of cooperation with Eritrea

Asmara, 16 September 2014 – The Japanese government has expressed readiness to foster partnership of cooperation with Eritrea. This was disclosed at a meeting which the visiting Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr. Minoru Kiuchi, held with Foreign Minister Osman Saleh today.

In the meeting, the two sides reached agreement on strengthening diplomatic ties between both countries, and to this end open a Japanese Embassy in Asmara.
Moreover, discussion was conducted on the need for Japan, as a developed nation, to enhance its role towards the implementation of the final and binding ruling of the Eritrea-Ethiopia Boundary Commission.

Meanwhile, the Japanese delegation held a meeting with the Eritrean Finance Minister, Mr. Birhane Habtemariam, regarding prospects of bilateral cooperation in the field of development and investment.

The Japanese delegation made a tour of inspection to Zeir textile factory, Medeber and other important sites.

Thanks to staunch resistance of its people and committed leadership Eritrea is standing on firm ground: Eritrean Ambassador in Israel

Asmara, 14 September 2014 - At a meeting he conducted with Eritrean nationals residing in RoHovot, Israel, Mr. Tesfamariam Tekeste, Eritrean Ambassador in Israel, indicated that thanks to the staunch resistance of its people and committed leadership Eritrea is standing on firm ground foiling external conspiracies and ensuring economic independence.

The Ambassador gave extensive briefings on the ongoing national development programs aimed at improving the living standard of citizens and ensuring social justice based on the policy self-reliance, and called on nationals to increase awareness and strengthen unity and conduct staunch resistance against external conspiracies.

He further called on nationals residing inside the country and abroad to develop strong awareness and self-confidence and strengthen participation in the national efforts to build developed and strong nation in which its nationals live in peace and prosperity.

Reports from the Eritrean Embassy in Israel indicate that the Eritrean nationals residing in RoHovot on their part expressed readiness to back up national development programs and donated 15, 600 USD towards martyrs’ trust.

Ambassador Fasil Gebreselasie presents credentials to President Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi of Egypt

Asmara, 15 September 2014 – Ambassador Fasil Gebreselasie who has been appointed as Eritrea’s Ambassador to Egypt yesterday presented his credentials to President Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi.

During the presentation ceremony, the Ambassador conveyed President Isaias’ greetings to the Egyptian leader, and stated that he would exert vigorous effort to strengthen Eritrean-Egyptian relations. Ambassador Fasil also wished peace and prosperity to the Egyptian people.

Conveying his deep respect to President Isaias, the Egyptian leader asserted that his government seeks to develop close ties between the two countries and expressed goodwill to the people and Government of Eritrea.

President Isaias meets delegates of representatives of African women’s associations to 7th NUEW Congress

Asmara, 15 September 2014 – President Isaias Afwerki today met with delegates of representatives of African women’s associations to the 7th Congress of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW).

In the meeting at Asmara Palace Hotel, the President pointed out that there exist no difference of rights between Eritrean male and female citizens thanks to the struggle both men and women waged in the armed struggle for independence and the common sacrifices they endured thereof.

The President underlined that the existing cooperation between women’s associations in the continent need to be further strengthened.

Lauding Eritrea’s policy of respecting equitable rights of both male and female citizens, the representatives of African women’s associations at the 7th NUEW Congress expressed satisfaction with the opportunity afforded them to share the experience of the National Union of Eritrean Women.

During the meeting of delegates of African women’s associations with President Isaias, Ms. Leul Gebreab, Chairperson of the NUEW, Ms. Fawzia Hashim, Minister of Justice, and Health Minister Amina Nur-Husein, as well as other NUEW heads were present.

7th Congress of NUEW opens

Asmara, 15 September 2014 – The 7th Congress of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) opened today at Asmara Palace Hotel in the presence of President Isaias Afwerki, senior Government and PFDJ officials, as well as invited guests.

Speaking at the opening session, Ms. Leul Gebreab, Chairperson of the NUEW, outlined the struggle that Eritrean women waged for independence alongside their male counterparts. In this connection, she underscored the great heritage that Eritrean women inherited from such struggle which constituted a vital weapon in the nation-building process.

Stating that the NUEW groups over 300 thousand members, the NUEW Chairperson explained that the present Congress would review the challenges and achievements of the Union over the past 10 years.

In salient remarks he made at the Congress, President Isaias underlined the laudable role that Eritrean women played in the liberation struggle. He further emphasized that the role of women in the past, today and the future needs to be reinforced as a vital asset. He went on to underscore that Eritrean women need to live up to expectations in endeavors to build a strong and prosperous nation.

Also speaking at the opening session, the Chairperson of the Congress’s Preparatory Committee, Ms. Azeb Birhane, expressed appreciation for the parties that made significant input to the holding of the Congress.

Messages of solidarity were conveyed during the opening session by representatives of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers, the National Union of Eritrean Youths and Students, the General Association of Sudanese Women, representatives of women’s unions from South Africa, the PRC, Zimbabwe and Tanzania, as well as on behalf of the United Nations.

President Isaias holds talks with Japanese delegation

Asmara, 15 September 2014 – President Isaias Afwerki today received and held talks with a Japanese government delegation headed by the Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr. Minoru Kicchi.

After delivering a message from Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Mr. Minoru Kicchi commended Eritrea’s cooperation with his country as regards international affairs, and expressed conviction that Eritrea would support Japan’s endeavors to secure a seat in the UN Security Council.

President Isaias indicated that Eritrean-Japanese cooperation in the domains of education and vocational training, as well as in different sectors connected with private investment need to be accompanied with concrete steps. In connection with Japan’s bid to join the UN Security Council, he underlined that Tokyo should play constructive role in the UN Security Council in line with its influence.

The two sides agreed to promote constructive engagement in various domains. Present on the occasion were Foreign Minister Osman Saleh, Mr. Yemane Gebremeskel, Director of the President’s Office, and the Eritrean Ambassador to Japan, Mr. Estifanos Afwerki.

Patriarch gives benediction in connection with Geez New Year

Asmara, 10 September 2014 – His Holiness Abune Dioskoros, 4th Patriarch of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church, gave benediction to the Eritrean people in connection with Geez New Year.

The Patriarch wished the faithful a year of peace and tranquility, in addition to calling on them to extend a helping hand to the needy.

Moreover, His Holiness Abune Dioskoros wished Eritrean nationals at home and abroad, as well as EDF members success in their nation-building endeavors.

President back home concluding working visit to Egypt

Asmara, 10 September 2014 – President Isaias Afwerki returned home in the afternoon hours today concluding a working visit to Egypt at the invitation of President Abdul-Fattah Al-Sisi.

During a meeting with the Egyptian leader yesterday, the two sides conducted discussion on fostering bilateral relations. The talks were conducted at Al-Etihadia State House in Cairo, during which the two leaders conducted in-depth discussion on ways and means of reinforcing to the highest level the existing Eritrean-Egyptian ties in the economic, social, political and diplomatic domains.

Moreover, the two leaders agreed on exchange of trade and investment between both countries, in addition to exchanging views as regards the contribution of Eritrea and Egypt in regional and international forums.

Reports indicated that Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Mr. Yemane Gebreab, Head of Political Affairs at the PFDJ, as well as Mr. Amin Hassan from the Office of the President, attended the meeting. On the Egyptian side, the Prime Minister, Eng. Ibrahim Mahlab, the Foreign Minister, Mr. Samih Shukri, and the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Khalid Abdel-Aziz, were present.

Annual Sports Festival of Eritrean community members in Kaiserslautern conducted

Asmara, 10 September 2014 – Reports indicated that the Annual Sports Festival of the Eritrean community members in Kaiserslautern, Germany, was conducted from Sept. 5 to 6 with patriotic zeal and higher Sports enthusiasm.

The event witnessed the participation of Eritrean veteran sportspersons from North America, Sweden and Switzerland, as well as other cities of Germany.   The participants of the festival exchanged views as regards enhancing role in the domain of sports and stated that it would make due contribution pertaining to popularizing the nation’s cultural values.

The objective of the 8-year Festival is to bequeath the history and experience of Eritrean sports to the new generation on the basis of organizing veteran sportspersons and nurturing competent youths.

Mr. Yohannes Debas, Consul in the Eritrean Embassy in Germany, and Mr. Tekle Kidane, veteran sportsman, handed awards to the participants of the Festival.

National Cycling Federation secures donation from nationals residing abroad

Asmara, 09 September 2014 – Members of the Eritrean Cycling Association residing in Europe and other countries have made donation to the National Cycling Federation.

Mr. Biniam Asmelash, Secretary of the Eritrean Cycling Association residing abroad, stated that the Association has been extending support to the Federation since its establishment in 1991, and expressed readiness to participate in other major programs of the Federation.

Reports indicated that the Norway-based Eritrean Cycling Association has 50 members.

Over 80% of Eritrea’s population attains literacy through Adult Education Program: Report

Asmara, 09 September 2014 – Mr. Tikabo Aymut, head of programming and curriculum development in Adult Education Program, said that over 80% of citizens who were admitted to adult education program have managed to read and write.

Accordingly, commendable efforts have been exerted in collaboration with stakeholders to this end since the year 2000, and that a number of males participated in the program, thus witnessing significant growth comparing to previous years.

In this connection, over 20 thousand nationals leading a nomadic pattern of living, 45% of whom are females, have presently managed to overcome illiteracy.

Mr. Yemane stresses need for the Youth to develop the requisite psychological awareness regarding nation-building process

Asmara, 09 September 2014 – Mr. Yemane Gebreab, Head of Political Affairs at the PFDJ, has underlined the need for the nation’s youths to develop the requisite psychological awareness as regards the nation-building process. He made the remarks at the meeting in Embatkala conducted by the National Union of Eritrean Youths and Students from September 4 to 7, during which Mr. Yemane also gave directives to heads of the Union at a seminar pertaining to action program for the NUEYS.

The PFDJ official emphasized the need for the NUEYS to strive for promoting the realization of Eritrea’s endeavors to fulfill the aspirations of citizens for a life of prosperity and dignity on the basis of relentless and concerted endeavors.

Also speaking on the occasion, the Chairman of the NUEYS, Mr. Saleh Ahmedin, outlined that the action programs of the Union regarding raising their awareness and organizational capacity, among others.

Presidents Isaias and Abdelfatah Al-Sisi hold talks focusing on fostering bilateral relations

Asmara, 09 September 2014 – President Isaias Afwerki and President Abdel-fattah Al-Sisi of Egypt today held talks focusing on fostering bilateral relations.

The talks were conducted at Al Etihadia Presidential Palace in Cairo, during which the two leaders conducted in-depth discussion on ways and means of reinforcing to the highest level the existing Eritrean-Egyptian ties in the economic, social, political and diplomatic domains.

Moreover, the two leaders agreed on exchange of trade and investment between both countries, in addition to exchanging views as regards the contribution of Eritrea and Egypt in regional and international forums.

Present in the meeting on the Eritrean side were Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Mr. Yemane Gebreab, Head of Political Affairs at the PFDJ, as well as Mr. Amin Hassan from the Office of the President, and on the Egyptian side the Prime Minister, Eng. Ibrahim Mahlab, the Foreign Minister, Mr. Samih Shukri, and the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Khalid Abdel-Aziz.

It is to be recalled that President Isaias yesterday left for Cairo on working visit at the official invitation of President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi of Egypt.

Eritrean Niguse Amlesom emerges victorious in half marathon tournament in China

Asmara, 22 April 2014 – Eritrean Niguse Amlesom ranked 1st in a half marathon tournament in China entitled Yeongboy Jiyanzeco last Saturday, and registered a new record concluding the race in 1 hour and 8 seconds, proving  a 31-seconds gap with that of the previous.

The steadfast athlete could register vibrant victories in a total of 3 tournaments this year including the one in UAE and the World Half Marathon Championship which was conducted 2 weeks ago.

He was proceeded by 2 Kenyan co-competitors, while Ethiopian Faisal ranked 4th.
Eritrean Girmai Gebresilassie held the 10th rank in the half marathon. 

Call made on inhabitants of Asebol to effectively utilize educational service

Assab, 22 April 2014 – The Administration of the Southern Denkalia sub-zone has called on the inhabitants of Asebol village to effectively utilize the free educational service made available to them at government expenditure.

It made the call at a meeting with the community members, during which Mr. Abdu Ali Dolaba, Administrator of the sub-zone, noted that education is the main prerequisite for development and called on them to become astute beneficiaries of the service.

Also speaking at the meeting, Mr. Humed Sur Ali, head of social service in the Southern Red Sea region, stated that the impact of community-based style of living is significant as regards promoting social service outreach.

Likewise, Mr. Mohammed-Ali Mohammed, an exemplary community member who extended around 400,000 Nakfa for the putting in place of educational facilities and construction of dirt road in the locality, expressed satisfaction with supporting such development ventures.

Asebol village is located some 95 Km. south-east of the port city of Assab.

Student and Youth Week conducted in Hagaz sub-zone

Hagaz, 22 April 2014 – Student and Youth Week was conducted in  Kermed representing the Administrative areas of  Shebeq, Adi-Omar and Adi-Arey in Hagaz sub-zone with a view to promoting exchange of experience and popularizing cultural values, and higher community participation was witnessed in the event.

Speaking on the occasion in which members of the Education Ministry’s branch in Anseba region, community elders and religious leaders took part, Mr. Medhanie Mebrahtu, school director, noted the significance of the event as regards nurturing virtuous youths and unraveling their potentials in various domains. He further assured that they would sustain such activities in a more organized manner.
Ms. Nejat Al-Amin, head of culture, health and sports in the Ministry’s regional branch, disclosed that enhanced efforts are being made to promote educational outreach regionally, and thus ensuring higher number of school admissions. She further called on students to demonstrate further commitment in their academic pursuit and thus effectively utilize the free educational opportunity accorded them at government expenditure.
The event witnessed the staging of exhibition and sports as well as cultural contests, besides camps depicting the lifestyle of the Eritrean ethnic groups.

The inhabitants of the Administrative areas expressed satisfaction with the event, and put forth views concerning related issues.

Eritrean community members in Berlin and Hale reiterate readiness to step up participation in national development programs

Asmara, 22 April 2014 – The Eritrean community members in the German cities of Berlin and Hale have reiterated readiness to step up participation in the implementation of national development programs. They made the pledge at a seminar, during which Mr. Petros Tsegai, the Eritrean Ambassador to Germany, gave briefings focusing on the objective situation in the Homeland and diplomatic, as well as other issues.

He went on to point out that the fruitfulness of the active diplomatic endeavors exerted by Eritrea in a bid to put an end to the unjust UN sanctions against Eritrea, the continuing external hostile acts and the smear campaigns thereof has become a cause of worries on the part of the enemy quarters.

Mr. Petros further urged the nationals to demonstrate higher participation for the realization of the cherished national development goals, besides mounting staunch resistance against anti-Eritrea conspiracies through effective organization.

The participants of the meeting asserted readiness to enhance role in State affairs.

Reliable study and integrated efforts vital prerequisite for ensuring ample water supply: Water Department

Asmara, 22 April 2014 – The Water Department indicated that a reliable study and integrated efforts constitute a vital prerequisite for ensuring ample water supply both for humans and livestock. It made the remark at a meeting with experts of agricultural, infrastructural and water development from all over the country, during which Mr. Mebrahtu Eyassu, Director General of the Water Department, called for effective utilization of the available water resources.

He further pointed out the need to give impetus to the ongoing endeavors regarding enrichment of underground water resources and restoration of erosion-hit areas throughout the country.

Mr. Misgina Gebresilassie, Head of Water supply in the Ministry of Land, Water and Environment, stated on his part that the Government has launched various projects to further distribution of potable water supply facilities at national level, and called for enhanced communal input in their implementation.

The seminar participants exchanged views on several issues. They also visited the potable water supply facility being put in place in Gizgiza sub-zone having its source 18 Km. away along Anseba River, and put forth views in this connection.

Products of Massawa Plastic Factory on the verge of market debut

Massawa, 15 March 2014 – The Administration of Massawa Plastic Factory indicated that its products are on the verge of market debut.

Mr. Mehari Segid, factory manager, disclosed that it started producing limited amount of 15 standardized varieties of water pipe in 2008, and that it is currently in a position to manufacture drip irrigation pipes of 16 to 20 millimeters of diameter. He further stated that the factory has extended its product lines through producing pipe assembly joints and wider pipes of 63 to 400 diameters, and that it would open sales outlets in Tessenei, Asmara and Massawa cities in the mid of this year.

Accordingly, the youth employees of the factory have acquired substantial experience as regards acquiring skill knowhow, and thus demonstrating versatility in their career. And veteran employees of the factory said that they would strive to share their experience with new staff members.

Inhabitants of Adi-Fakai area striving to raise agricultural output through conducting popular undertakings

Hagaz, 15 March 2014 – The Inhabitants of Adi-Fakai Administrative area, Hagaz sub-zone, said that they are striving to raise agricultural output through conducting popular soil and water conservation undertakings.

Among the community members, Mr. Adem Saleh Osman, Mr. Zerizgi Berakh, Ms. Amna Adem Shifa and Ms. Hawa Mohammed Idris pointed out that the venture began last June, and that higher communal organization as well as participation is being witnessed in the process which is due to continue until the onset of the rainy season.

Mr. Adem Seidai, Administrator of the area, disclosed that the undertaking is being carried out 5 days in a week, and that terraces as well as water diversion canals have been constructed on more than 50 hectares through community-led venture in which inspired female participation is being witnessed.

Warsai-Yikealo Secondary School conducts assessment meeting

Sawa, 15 March 2014 – The Administration of Warsai-Yikealo Secondary School, Sawa, has conducted assessment meeting this week focusing on the work accomplishments of the current academic year.

In opening remarks, Mr. Kelit Girmai, Director of the school, pointed out that the investment of one’s nation on education is by and far determinant pertaining to development and fulfilling future societal prospects. He further indicated that the meeting is aimed at keeping intact the positive sides of school’s endeavors, besides identifying ways and means of addressing the prevailing challenges.

Mr. Kelit went on to note the values of teaching as a profession and vis-à-vis nurturing a reliable human resource capacity, and called on teachers to do demonstrate higher commitment in their career.

Likewise, Lt. Colonel Temesgen Samuel, Deputy Commander of Sawa Training Center, explained that the assessment meeting constitutes a spring board to better achievement, and that it would serve as a forum for identifying as well as resolving the problems thereof.

Warsai-Yikealo Secondary School, which provides mutual learning environment on equitable basis for students representing all ethnic groups, has currently registered around 20,000 students, 44% of whom are females.

Moreover, extracurricular activities such as that of sports, culture, peer education and student counseling are conducted in the school.

Funeral service of Maj. General Gebregziabher Andemariam conducted today at Asmara Patriots Cemetery with patriotic zeal

Asmara, 08 March 2014 – The funeral service of the late veteran fighter Maj. General Gebregziabher Andemariam, Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Defence Force,was conducted today at Asmara Patriots Cemetery with patriotic zeal in the presence of President Isaias Afwerki, Ministers, Senior Government and PFDJ officials, Army Commanders, religious leaders and a large number of nationals.

The funeral ceremony was accompanied by Salute of the Guard of Honor that marched from Maj. General Gebregziabher’s home to the cemetery, and the memoir was presented by Brig. General Tekle Libsu.

The departed Maj. General Gebregziabher joined the Liberation Forces in 1971 and served in various capacities for 43 years ranging from a rank-and-file member to Chief of Staff of the Defense Force, and his exemplary steadfastness persisted in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and the nation-building process. He also possessed a valuable charisma concerning nationalism, love for people, energy, bravery and pleasant personality.

The funeral service witnessed the laying of wreath by President Isaias, Mr. Al-Amin Mohammed Seid, PFDJ Secretary, Gen. Sibhat Ephrem, Defense Minister, Ms. Leul Gebreab, Chairperson of the NUEW, and Commanders of all commands, Naval force and Air Force, as well as the People’s Army.

The Government of Eritrea conveys message of condolence to the family members and the citizenry in connection with the passing away of the late Maj. General Gebregziabher Andemariam, chief of staff of the Defense Force.

President holds more talks with Qatari government officials. 

Asmara, 03 March 2014 – President Isaias Afwerki who is currently on an official working visit to Qatar today held talks with different officials of the country.

In a meeting with the Qatari Foreign Minister, Dr. Khalid Al-Atia, the President held extensive discussion on promoting relations of partnership.

At a meeting he conducted earlier with Mr. Jassim Seif Al-Suleiti, Minister of Transport, President Isaias and the Qatari officialconducted discussion on the enhancement of bilateral cooperation, particularly in the transport sector.

It is to be recalled that in a meeting he conducted with the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Temim Bin Hammed Bin Khelifa Al-Thani, the two sides held discussion focusing on bilateral ties, relations of partnership and issues of mutual interest to both countries.

President Isaias left for Qatar yesterday on an official working visit.