INDEPENDENCE — THE FOUNDATION OF NATIONAL STATEHOOD
AND THE PATH TOWARDS A PROSPEROUS FUTURE
Whenever the 35 years of the state independence of the Republic of Tajikistan are mentioned, the image of a personality who has passed through the entire period of modern Tajik statehood with tireless dedication, strong determination, and a great historical responsibility inevitably comes to mind. These thirty-five years represent the selfless devotion of a statesman who dedicated all the joys of his life to building the state, strengthening peace and unity, reviving the nation, developing the Motherland, and protecting the security of the Tajik people.
The pages of the modern history of the Tajik people preserve the painful breath of time: the quiet tears of mothers who spent nights praying for peace until dawn; the tired eyes of fathers who carried in their hearts the dream of a day free from fear and displacement; the bitter silence of children who spent their childhood waiting for peace in their homeland. These pages also record the sleepless efforts of thousands of devoted sons of the nation — those who, with hearts full of hope, tired hands, but unwavering determination, committed themselves to establishing peace, prosperity, and the revival of Tajikistan.
Along this complex and challenging historical path, the Founder of Peace and National Unity — Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, directed all his strength, knowledge, experience, and dedication towards protecting Tajik statehood, strengthening the foundations of independence, and ensuring a peaceful life for the people.
“Independence is an invaluable blessing, and it is the duty of each of us to express gratitude for this blessing and protect it as the apple of our eye,” emphasizes the Leader of the Nation, Emomali Rahmon.
In the history of every nation, there are events that determine not only the beginning of a new stage but also the destiny of many generations. For the Tajik people, such a great event was the state independence of the Republic of Tajikistan. After 35 years, it can be proudly stated that independence for Tajiks was not merely a political event; it became the beginning of the revival of national statehood, the strengthening of self-awareness, economic development, the growth of international prestige, and the consolidation of national unity.
The first years of independence were an extremely difficult period for Tajikistan, as political crises, civil conflict, and economic challenges threatened the very existence of the state. During this sensitive historical stage, political will, national unity, and wise leadership enabled Tajikistan to overcome the threat of fragmentation and choose the path of peace, stability, and development. It was precisely this peace and stability that became the foundation for all subsequent achievements of the country.
The modern experience of our state-building demonstrates that independence is not only the achievement of sovereignty but also the continuous preservation and strengthening of statehood. During this period, the Constitution of the Republic of Tajikistan was adopted, the foundations of national statehood were strengthened, and the structure of state institutions was improved. The National Army was established, and the rule of law was gradually reinforced. The young Tajik state managed to gain a worthy position in the international arena as a sovereign, peace-loving, and proactive country.
During the period of independence, the development of the national economy became one of the priority areas. The implementation of the state’s strategic goals — achieving energy independence, overcoming communication isolation, ensuring food security, and rapidly industrializing the country — created real foundations for sustainable development. The construction of major hydropower plants, roads, tunnels, bridges, industrial enterprises, and social facilities has completely transformed the appearance of modern Tajikistan. Every new facility is clear evidence that independence for the people is not only a political concept but also a source of prosperity and progress.
Alongside economic development, the state has paid special attention to the fields of education, science, healthcare, and culture. Hundreds of educational and medical institutions have been built, creating new opportunities for education and youth development. The progress of the state primarily depends on the level of knowledge and human potential, and educated, patriotic, and responsible young people are the guarantee of continuing the constructive path of independent Tajikistan.
Independence has also created favorable conditions for the revival of the national and historical values of the Tajik people. The state language has gained its rightful status, the rich cultural heritage has been restored, and the works of outstanding figures of the nation have become the subject of study and international presentation. This process has strengthened the sense of self-awareness, national pride, and respect for the history of statehood within society.
At the global level, Tajikistan is recognized as an initiative-driven and peace-loving state. The initiatives of the Republic of Tajikistan on issues related to water resources, glacier preservation, and climate change have received support from the international community, further enhancing the country’s international reputation. These initiatives demonstrate that, alongside addressing domestic challenges, Tajikistan also makes a valuable contribution to addressing global issues. It is for this reason that the latest initiative of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, was supported by the United Nations General Assembly, which adopted the Resolution “International Decade for Strengthening Peace for Future Generations, 2027–2036.”
Thirty-five years of independence have proven that, despite political, economic, and global challenges, Tajikistan has chosen the right path of developing national statehood. A state that once struggled to preserve its very existence is now confidently moving towards a stable and sustainable future. All of this is the result of peace and unity, the dedicated efforts of the people of Tajikistan, and a state-building policy focused on development.
The celebration of the 35th anniversary of state independence is not merely a commemoration of a historical date; it is also an opportunity to reflect on the responsibility of every citizen towards the Motherland. Preserving independence, strengthening national unity, respecting state values, developing science and education, and engaging in honest and dedicated work are the sacred duties of every member of society. Only through a deep sense of this responsibility can we make independent Tajikistan even more prosperous, beautiful, and developed, and proudly pass this great historical legacy on to future generations.
Head of the International Relations Department
Nodirshohi Habibullo.
