(Shabait) Asmara, 7 January 2010 – Christmas was today celebrated enthusiastically across the nation.  The celebrations were held in Keren town at the national level through the collaboration of the Ministry of Information and the Administration of Anseba region that was broadcast live via ERI-TV. 

In a speech he delivered on the occasion, the Administrator of Keren town, Mr. Tekie Keleta, said that though Christmas as a religious celebration directly refers to the followers of the Christian faith, the event is nonetheless celebrated by the entire Eritrean people. He also explained that the Eritrean people cherish the culture of celebrating together not only national holidays but also religious holidays in harmony, and this has strengthened the unity of the people. 

Stating that such cultural values are unique and non-existing in other countries, Mr. Tekie reminded the society at large to uphold and cherish such cultural values.

Government officials, Army Commanders, religious leaders, Assembly members, elders, villager representatives and other invited guests participated in the celebration. The Chairman of the National Holidays Coordinating Committee in Anseba region, Mr. Futsum Gebrezgiabher expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Informational and the inhabitants of Anseba region  for making due contribution to the successful holding of the event.

Three cultural troupes staged various performances, thus adding color to the celebration.