MEDEMER in action witnessed through athletes: PM Abiy

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Sahle-Work Zewde celebrated Ethiopian athletes, coaches and officials who participated in the 43rd edition of the IAAF World Cross Country Championships at a state dinner.
The athletes achieved a great victory, returning to Ethiopia with 5 gold, 3 silver and 3 bronze medals, taking 1st place among 63 countries.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed awarded the leaders of the committee and high performing athletes with certificates of recognition and financial rewards.
In his remarks, the Prime Minister noted the value of MEDEMER in action witnessed through the victories of the athletes.
Reflecting on current challenges, he highlighted the lessons that can be drawn from athletes in winning the race if we listen to each other closely, work collectively, develop patience and work hard, according to office of the Prime Minister.
He concluded by calling upon all Ethiopians in all parts of the country to dedicate every Sunday from 6am to 7am to cleaning “our neighborhoods, our streets, our minds from all that is polluting our environment and our beings.”
The renowned athlete Feyisa Lelisa, also present at the dinner, was honored in a special category, as part of the celebratory evening, for his silver medal victory at the Rio 2016 marathon.
The Ethiopian team finished first place in the 2019 IAAF World Cross Country (WXC) Championships held in Aarhus, Denmark with a total of 11 medals – 5 gold, 3 silver and 3 bronze medals.