Eritrea celebrates National Day on May 24

President Omar Hassen Al-Beshir of Sudan sent a message of congratulations to President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea in advance of the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Independence Day celebrations.

President Omar Al-Beshir wished good health to President Isaias, as well as peace and prosperity to the Eritrean people.

Just a week ago, [May 13] Sudan and Eritrea agreed to abolish entry visas, opening their common borders for free movement of peoples and goods both ways. The two countries have also agreed to facilitate goods and commodities traffic, without restrictions, organise inter-trade and remove all border crossing points that hinder the movement of citizens of the two countries.

[COMMENT] May 24 Independence Day is the most significant National Holiday in Eritrea. On May 24 1991 EPLF forces entered Asmara, re-claiming independence, after a bitter 30 years war against Ethiopian military occupation.

Independence Day is celebrated nationwide in Eritrea, but the most spectacular place to be is in Asmara, where the 1991 victory is celebrated with one week of cultural shows in Cinema Odeon and Bahti Meskerem, carnival on the main streets of Asmara, community feasts, live music on Harnet Avenue, and a colorful celebration at the Asmara Stadium on May 24.

Eritrea loves a big show in the stadium!