On May 8, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited Victory Park in the capital.

Almost 81 years have passed since the end of the Second World War. Yet even after decades, the painful history of the war and the unprecedented suffering and devastation it brought upon humanity have not faded from memory. On the contrary, these tragic chapters of history continue to remind us time and again of the priceless value of peace and tranquility. This profound meaning lies at the heart of the Day of Remembrance and Honor, observed on May 9.

The Head of State took part in a commemorative ceremony held at Victory Park on the occasion of this significant date.

In keeping with tradition, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev laid a wreath at the foot of the “Ode to Fortitude” monument. This symbolic memorial embodies the hardships, resilience, and irreparable losses endured by our people during the war years.

“Today, we express special care and respect for war and labor veterans who remain among us in good health, as well as for all esteemed representatives of the older generation. This memorial complex can rightfully be regarded as a sacred place honoring the courage and heroism of the multinational people who made a worthy contribution to the Great Victory,” the Head of State said.

According to available data, around 2 million residents of our country, whose population at that time stood at 6.8 million, took part in the fierce battles against fascism. Of them, approximately 540,000 lost their lives, 158,000 went missing, more than 50,000 perished in concentration camps after enduring unimaginable suffering and torment, while over 60,000 returned home with disabilities.

The heroism of Uzbek soldiers and officers is further reflected in the fact that nearly 214,000 were awarded military orders and medals for bravery.

During the war years, our country served as a reliable rear base for the front. Military equipment, weapons, clothing, and food supplies were regularly dispatched to the battlefields. Despite the immense hardships of the time, our people welcomed approximately 1.5 million evacuees from conflict zones into their homes and surrounded them with care, including 250,000 orphaned children who had lost their parents.

The ceremony was also attended by representatives of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan, government and public organizations, mahalla activists, and members of the older generation, who laid flowers at the foot of the memorial.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also visited the Alley of National Heroes at Victory Park, where he paid tribute to servicemen and law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives during the years of independence while defending the country.

“It is no coincidence that the ‘Selflessly Devoted to the Nation’ memorial complex was established here. It serves as a reminder that defending the Motherland is the sacred duty of every generation and symbolizes the continuity of patriotic traditions,” President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted.

The memorial complex bears the names of 196 servicemen and law enforcement officers who heroically lost their lives during the years of independence while defending the freedom of the Motherland and peace in the country.

The Head of State expressed deep gratitude to the parents who raised such courageous, brave, and truly devoted sons of the Motherland.

Our people will never forget these selfless heroes who, in the prime of their lives, became a shield against the enemy and sacrificed themselves for the Motherland. In 2025 alone, the memorial complex was visited by approximately 650,000 citizens and foreign guests.

Many spiritual and educational events, lessons on history and patriotism, and “Hour of the Future” classes are held here. It was noted that such work carries great spiritual and educational significance and should be consistently continued.

This year, the 690th anniversary of the birth of our great ancestor Amir Timur is being widely celebrated in our country and abroad.

The ideals of statehood, courage, and heroism established by the great Sahibkiran remain as powerful today as ever. This glorious tradition is being worthily continued by our brave soldiers, officers, and generals. They are our great wealth and the reliable, strong shield of the Motherland.

“We see a new generation of Alpomyshes, Jaloliddin Manguberdi, and Amir Timurs in the students of the ‘Temurbek Schools’ and in the brave servicemen standing in formation here today. The rich heritage of our great ancestors, their school of knowledge and experience, is returning not only to our museums, but also to our hearts. It is as though they are coming back to life and, together with us, are building a New Uzbekistan and laying the foundation for the Third Renaissance. Everyone who visits the Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, the State Museum of the History of the Timurids, or the Imam Bukhari complex in Samarkand feels this deeply,” President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.

As noted during the event, defending the Motherland has always remained a priority for both the state and the people. It is a sacred and honorable duty shared by all. Especially in today’s increasingly tense world, the significance of this mission grows manyfold.

This year, the 35th anniversary of our Motherland’s independence will be widely and solemnly celebrated. There is undoubtedly profound meaning in the fact that this great date is being marked under the noble motto: “With a united Motherland and a united people, we will build a new life and a new future!”

“Today, we see conflicts and wars unfolding in neighboring regions. Life itself once again confirms that preserving national unity and solidarity under such difficult conditions is our greatest strength and greatest wealth. Defending the Motherland is the highest and most honorable mission. Our brave and courageous sons, who deeply understand this truth and always remain faithful to their military oath, deserve the highest words of gratitude and respect,” the Head of State said.

It was noted that the Alley of National Heroes should remain a sacred place where the spirit of courage, calling for the preservation of peace and serving to educate thousands and millions of defenders of the Motherland, resonates day and night.

The Head of State also stressed that comprehensive support for the families and children of those who heroically sacrificed their lives while fulfilling their duty to the Motherland will continue consistently.