Bologna was not only a center for festival, but it was a center where cultural, political, historic and above all national sentiments were reflected in true image through unremitting efforts of Eritreans all over the world. It was indeed a venue where all nationals shared updated information about the development of the struggle for independence. The unyielding perseverance of Eritreans in the Diaspora and their attachment to their homeland makes them ambassadors of their nation and backers of the then active struggle for national independence. The struggle for independence took its sturdy roots in the unity of all Eritreans in the homeland and also in the abroad. The entire world, which turned blind eye to the Eritrean national cause, was then forced to clearly see the just cause through the very unity of all Eritreans inside the country and also from around the world. Eritrea Festival Bologna has been among the vivid gatherings of Eritreans outside Eritrea. It is the love they always cherish in their mind that enabled all Eritreans contribute what they could in support of the struggle for independence. All in kind and monetary contributions were made possible through staging cultural shows and also through dinner receptions in which all Eritreans from Italy, Germany, UK, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Switzerland, Israel, Australia, Greece, Belgium, France and Holland gather and raise funds. A number of influential and interested foreigners were also invited to take part in such an Eritrean gathering. Thus, Festival of Eritrea in Bologna was highly instrumental towards boosting economic capability and strengthening political activities of the EPLF in a great deal. Bologna continues to enjoy the voice of Eritrea and Eritreans, enjoyed the unity of Eritreans which it has been accustomed to since some forty years back. Bologna finds this unity has by far been strengthened and the number of pilgrims has been redoubled.
Source: Dehai Eritrea Online