DUSHANBE, September 3, 2012, Asia-Plus — Tajik authorities have decided to mark the 21st anniversary of Tajikistan’s Independence without traditional military parade.
Faridoun Mahmadaliyev, a spokesman for the Ministry of Defense (MoD), says sports activities, concerts, quizzes and meetings with war veterans will be organized in all military units across the country.
The history of the Tajiks extends well over a 1000 year into the past, though there was never a formal state called Tajikistan until 9 September 1991.
Having gained its independence in 1991, Tajikistan experienced a five-year civil war and several changes in government in 1992-1997. Signing of a peace agreement put an end to the fighting. Since that time, Tajikistan has come a long way in consolidating peace and stability. The process of its implementation has opened a new page in the development of the country. Tajikistan has demonstrated a firm commitment to stability and has made substantial progress in peace building. In 1999 Tajiks marked the 1100 anniversary of Samanid Empire, which became a symbol of cohesion for public and political forces. Last September, Tajikistan marked 20 years of independence with celebrations, concerts, national conferences, and speeches from political leaders in Dushanbe and throughout the country.
