Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh today concluded a visit to the ongoing renovation of the Menagesha Genet Tsige St. George (Arada Giorgis) Church, located in the very heart of the capital.

In a message following his inspection, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the church's profound historical significance and its role in the nation's renewal efforts.

"The church's history is deeply intertwined with the saga of Adwa,"the Deputy Prime Minister stated. He recalled the heavy toll the church paid during the second Fascist occupation, when it was targeted as a "war criminal"and subjected to burning and defacement with black paint.

Temesgen confirmed that the renovation is being carried out to the highest standards, utilizing a diverse team of professionals.

"The current, historically sensitive yet modern restoration of the St. George (Arada Giorgis) Church building and compound will truly complete the historical narrative of the area,"he noted.

He expressed his admiration for the work, finding "the architectural design of the building, the artistic excellence of the paintings, the superb craftsmanship and quality of the ironworks, and the outstanding value of the artifacts to be truly magnificent."

The inspection comes as the surrounding area undergoes a major transformation, which the Deputy Prime Minister recognized as a boost to the city's profile:

The recent construction of the Adwa Museum.

The maintenance of the Emperor Menelik II Square.

The development of an observation amphitheater.

"These developments have significantly amplified the flow of tourism in the locality. The area is also rapidly evolving into Ethiopias diplomatic center,"he said.

Concluding his message, the Deputy Prime Minister stressed the need for synergy in the restoration work.

"I urge all concerned parties to deliver their expected contribution so that the renovation of the church and its surrounding area is seamlessly harmonized with the urban renewal projects, tourist destination development, and heritage preservation standards we have launched," he appealed.