DUSHANBE, December 1, Asia-Plus — On Friday November 30, U.S. embassy Charge d”Affaires Thomas Hushek, and Russian embassy Charge d”Affaires Vyacheslav Svetlichny laid wreaths at the Russian Military Base Headquarters’ monument in Dushanbe, press release issued by the US Embassy in Dushanbe said.
The ceremony honored the Russian soldiers who assisted in evacuating U.S. diplomats from the U.S. Embassy in October 1992 at the onset of Tajikistan”s 1992-1997 civil war. The wreath-laying is an annual ceremony shared by the U.S. and Russian embassies to commemorate this act of international cooperation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Charge Hushek”s remarked, “Now, fifteen years later, in today’s Dushanbe, it is hard to remember that war. But we do remember the help we received from the 201st MRD who helped us move our staff safely from the country.” “We remember this and recognize that even today in Dushanbe – far from Washington and far from Moscow – our two countries share many common interests. Whether fighting narcotics or promoting stability in the region, Russia and America are natural partners.”
Mr. Hushbek thanked the Russian embassy, the Russian military, and the Russian people for their assistance fifteen years ago.
“I look forward to close cooperation in the years to come, here in Tajikistan and throughout the world,” US diplomat said.
