More than 27,000 take part in Dushanbe parade marking Tajikistan’s 35th independence anniversary

More than 27,000 people took part in a military parade in Dushanbe marking the 35th anniversary of Tajikistan’s state independence. The event took place on Sept. 7 at Istiqlol Square, with President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief Emomali Rahmon in attendance.

The participants included officers and soldiers from the armed forces, law enforcement and security personnel, mobilization-reserve servicemen, female servicemen, veterans of law enforcement structures, international soldiers and representatives of other Dushanbe garrison units.

Defense Minister Colonel General Emomali Sobirzoda reported to Rahmon that the units were ready. The parade began on the command of Major General Husein Shokirzoda, commander of the Dushanbe garrison. Flag bearers from the Defense Ministry’s Honor Guard company carried the national flag onto the square, followed by a march accompanied by a combined military orchestra.

In his address, Rahmon congratulated residents, servicemen, law enforcement officers and veterans on the anniversary. He highlighted the role of the armed forces and security agencies in protecting security and political stability during the first years after the Soviet Union’s collapse and during Tajikistan’s civil war.

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Today we proudly declare that over 35 years of State independence, the Armed Forces of Tajikistan have transformed into a modern, organized, powerful, and professional force.

“Today we proudly declare that over 35 years of State independence, the Armed Forces of Tajikistan have transformed into a modern, organized, powerful, and professional force,” Rahmon said.

He also referred to the current global situation, saying that growing risks increased the responsibilities of servicemen and law enforcement officers. He urged them to improve their professional training and comply with laws and military regulations, saying national security depended on their professionalism, knowledge, skills and vigilance.

“Military service is not only the fulfillment of professional duties, but also a manifestation of honor, dignity, and conscientious performance of filial duty to the ancestral homeland,” Rahmon said. He described the parade as a symbol of discipline and combat readiness, and said those who had protected state security and public stability had earned citizens’ respect.

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Military service is not only the fulfillment of professional duties, but also a manifestation of honor, dignity, and conscientious performance of filial duty to the ancestral homeland.