Turkmenistan solemnly celebrates the 31st anniversary of its independence on Tuesday, the country’s official media reports.
The commemorative events started with a solemn ceremony of laying flowers at the Monument of Independence in Ashgabat, with the participation of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
Government officials, heads of military and law enforcement agencies, representatives of public organizations, heads of diplomatic missions, honorary elders, students, residents and foreign guests of the capital also attended the ceremony.
Then, a military parade to commemorate the Independence Day was held in front of the State Tribune. The millitary parade demonstrated the high professionalism and training of Turkmen soldiers. Military and law enforcement agencies demonstrated their military technologies, samples of equipment and weapons.
Representatives of the parliament and the public, all branches of the national economy, culture, education, healthcare, scientific and sports circles and of all regions of the country also took part in the festive parade.
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov congratulated the Turkmen people on the 31st anniversary of the country's independence.
“The sovereignty of our Motherland is the foundation of a happy and prosperous life for the people of the country.Excellent labor victories achieved during 31 years of independent development are the embodiment of patriotism, unity and cohesion, conscientious and hard work of the people of Turkmenistan,” President Berdimuhamedov said, adding that “over the years of independence, great success has been achieved in the political, economic, cultural and social spheres.
During this time, Turkmenistan has become a country with a powerful economy, a perfect social system, a rapidly developing state that enjoys great prestige in the world.”
A number of other important events on the occasion of the celebration are held in the country and abroad.