Fossil remains taken from the Omo Valley for scientific research and kept in France for several decades have been officially returned to Ethiopia.

The returned items include well-preserved large fossil bones, jaws, teeth, and research samples.

It was noted that these remains are irreplaceable historical and scientific assets on a global scale regarding the study of human origins and evolution.

The French Ambassador to Ethiopia, Alexis Lamek, highlighted the French government's commitment to returning Ethiopia's historical artifacts and expressed pride that the research chapter for the Omo fossils has concluded and that they have returned to their homeland. He stated that this would further strengthen the scientific and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

The head of the Ethiopian Heritage Authority expressed gratitude to the French government and noted that the retrieved artifacts are historical evidence confirming Ethiopia as the cradle of humankind.

It was announced that the artifacts will be preserved at the National Museum and made accessible to researchers and visitors and that efforts to repatriate other heritage items currently located abroad will continue.