On August 28, a ceremony to commemorate victims of political repressions was held at the 'Shahidlar Khotirasi' (Memory of Martyrs) Alley, with the participation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, representatives of state and public organizations, the older generation, religious leaders, and intellectuals.
During the ceremony, verses from the Quran were recited and a prayer was offered. Memorial pilaf was served. The head of state conversed with religious figures and intellectuals about preserving historical memory, restoring the names of repression victims, and raising youth in a spirit of patriotism.
"These days, we are joyfully celebrating the 35th anniversary of our national independence. For thirty-five years, we have been independent, living a free and prosperous life under a peaceful and clear sky. This is a great happiness, an invaluable wealth. Our sacred duty on such momentous days is to remember our heroic ancestors who died for independence and freedom, and to honor their bright memory," said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
The President stressed that the heroism of selfless ancestors will never be forgotten, and their feat will forever remain a source of spiritual strength for the people.
"The noble idea 'For the honor and dignity of man!' underlying all our reforms requires further strengthening of work to perpetuate the memory of our brave ancestors and realize their aspirations and hopes. The more we honor the memory of our dear ones, the more we value today's peaceful life and our national independence," the President said.
It was noted that in 2021-2025, the Supreme Court exonerated the names of more than 1,200 compatriots who were victims of repressions. This year, another 161 compatriots, illegally accused and sentenced to various terms of imprisonment or death during the former totalitarian regime, were rehabilitated.
The head of state expressed concern that today armed conflicts and political confrontations are intensifying in the world, spreading to regions close to us. This requires us to value peace in our country, to unite even more, and to live in unity and harmony.
"Our path is the path of peace, friendship, and cooperation. Uzbekistan will never deviate from this path," the President said.
It was emphasized that today compatriots can freely visit any country in the world, and Uzbekistan cooperates with all states on the basis of equality. This is a practical reflection of the country's complete liberation from the chains of colonialism and 'cotton slavery'.
It was noted that an important condition for the development of New Uzbekistan is building life and the future on the basis of knowledge and enlightenment, as well as friendly cooperation with countries near and far. The great Jadids were not in vain in calling the nation to awakening, knowledge, and enlightenment. Their school of struggle and enlightenment is extremely important even today.
Over the past ten years, the number of higher education institutions has increased from 77 to 205, and admission quotas have been regularly expanded. More than 3,500 young men and women study at universities ranked among the top 100 in the world. Important changes are also taking place in school and preschool education systems.
"We must pay special attention to raising our youth on the basis of national pride. National pride is a powerful force that fills a person's heart and soul with energy and motivation. A person with national pride cannot be defeated," said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Over the past ten years, more than 100,000 compatriots have had the opportunity to perform the Hajj. The head of state expressed confidence that the religious community will continue to actively participate in strengthening an atmosphere of mutual respect and kindness in society, as well as in the proper upbringing of youth.
"Today, being in this sacred place, we offer endless gratitude to the Almighty for our peaceful and calm life, for the successes we have achieved. May the souls of our heroic ancestors – fathers and grandfathers, brave mothers who dreamed of such free and prosperous days – rest in peace! May our country continue to flourish as a land of peaceful life, development, and prosperity! May the Almighty always protect our Motherland!" the President said.
At the end of the event, prayers were read for the victims of repressions and our ancestors who gave their lives for the freedom of the Motherland, with a request for lasting peace, tranquility, and prosperity in our country.
Source: uznews.uz