Asmara — The Eritrean National Festival that has been integral part of the Eritrean people's cultural fiber since the days of liberation struggle has already begun being celebrated in different countries of the world.

A nation is not defined only by geographical borders as well as the people, government and the defense forces within, but rather the most important factor that constitutes a given nation is the common sense of identity ingrained within the minds of the citizens. Sovereignty and independence more than any other place should first be rooted in the minds of the people. The common lines of though and sense of identity

that are the basis for any country are embedded within the culture and values of the people. In short, culture is the basic definition of a given community's identity and existence. Without culture one cannot establish any form of social life or organization.

Undaunted by the cultural invasion of colonial forces, the Eritrean people preserved their cultural heritage and values for generations for they are proud of their culture and origins. One of the factors that enabled the Eritrean people to secure their freedom regardless of the odds against them is this love of culture and origin. Had the Eritrean people not developed their cultural diversity into one united national culture and promoted their national identity, Eritrea today would not have been an independent country.

Ensuring the continuity and development of a given society is in itself a culture. A society cannot ensure continuity only by producing the next generation but should also be able to equip that generation with its own culture and values. Hence the biggest responsibility of a given society is to nurture its children and youth, and more importantly to instill in them a deep love and pride in their origin and identity. Besides highlighting one's own identity, culture occupies a center stage in creating a common vision and aspiration, thereby building a strong national unity and civilized thinking.

The current period of globalization is a period during which technology is used to cultivate hatred in one's own culture and identity while promoting migrant slavery. In such an atmosphere, the biggest obstacle for developing countries is not securing economic development but actually participating in the international arena without compromising their culture and identity. Because, achieving economic development alone without securing one's own culture and identity cannot guarantee a country's existence. Thus, the preservation of culture and identity should be given equal priority just as political and economic development.

The Eritrean Festival that had developed during the struggle period and became part of our communal culture is thus an important factor that helps us evaluate the progress we have achieved in our endeavors to preserve our identity, culture and values. It is also an important stage in which we highlight our diverse culture, national unity and harmony, history and way of life as well as our common vision and endeavors.