The completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) marks a pivotal moment for Ethiopia, a "second victory of Adwa" overcoming generations of challenges and reshaping the nation's diplomatic standing, declared Ambassador Meles Alem,  Deputy Director General of the African Affairs Directorate.

His celebratory remarks highlighted the dam's significance as a symbol of national pride, resilience, and the realisation of a long-held dream.

Deputy Director Ambassador Meles emphasised the profound emotional and historical weight carried by the GERD project.

He stated that Ethiopians do not see the dam as merely a construction project to divert the Abay River, but as a testament to their determination to overcome adversity.

The Ambassador asserted that the completion of the dam has been achieved through not only an engineering feat, but also, diplomatic skill in a challenging global landscape.

"Many challenges have been overcome in the field of diplomacy," Ambassador Meles noted, underscoring the complex negotiations and international pressures surrounding the GERD.

He expressed pride in being part of the generation that brought the ambitious project to fruition, answering the questions and fulfilling the aspirations of previous generations who had dreamt of harnessing the Abay River's potential.

Ambassador Meles pointed out that Ethiopia has faced numerous hardships related to the river and, in the past, was repeatedly told that such a project was impossible.

According to him, however, the Ethiopian people persevered, working tirelessly even when discouraged.

This unwavering commitment, he argued, transformed the GERD into a symbol of Ethiopian resilience and self-reliance.

He sees the successful creation of the dam as being capable of positively reshaping the diplomatic landscape of Ethiopia moving forward.

Recounting the laying of the dam's foundation stone, Ambassador Meles shared his personal connection to the project, recalling his presence in Nairobi, Kenya at the time.

He expressed gratitude for the contributions of Ethiopians living abroad, particularly those in Kenya, who supported the project's development.

He also congratulated the people of Ethiopia in and across the globe. 

In a deeply emotive statement, Ambassador Meles concluded by proclaiming, "The Creator has dried the tears of Ethiopia. He has fulfilled the dreams of his people."

This declaration encapsulates the GERD's significance as a source of national healing, hope, and the fulfilment of a long-cherished vision for a prosperous and self-sufficient Ethiopia, according to him.