The president made the call in his address to a throng of celebrants gathered at the Victory Monument at Arat Kilo early on the day in connection with this 68th Anniversary of Ethiopia's Victory Day over Fascist Italian invaders.

After laying a wreath at the foot of the monument, the President, who is also the patron of the Ethiopian Patriots Association, said the legendary victory of the patriots of Ethiopia over the Italian invasion should be taken as an example for the current generation to fight poverty.

The President noted that the young generations need to struggle to extricate nation from grinding poverty.

He said all the citizens should join hands for the realization of nation's vision of making one of the middle income economies.

Mayor of Addis Ababa City Administration Kuma Demkissa on his part said the gallant Ethiopian patriots made proud not only Ethiopians but also for Africans and black people.

The mayor said the heroic deed of citizens that mark Ethiopia as a Symbol for freedom would remains in the memory of the African people.

Speaking on his part President of Ethiopian Patriots Association, Astatke Abate said the ancient patriots sacrificed to defend the sovereignty of the nation. Likewise, he said, the current generation should be duty bound to safeguard the territorial integrity of the country.

He said the youth should strive to make poverty history more than ever before.

The day was observed in the presence of President Girma Woldegiorgis, senior government officials, diplomatic corps, members of the patriots’ association, residents of the city, and other invited guests.

Anniversary of Patriots' Victory Day is organized on May 5 annually to commemorate the Ethiopian patriots, who gained victory over the fascist Italian troops.

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