Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan held military parades in their capitals to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Victory in World War II, honoring the memory of soldiers from Central Asia who fought and died in the war against Nazi Germany.
The parade in Bishkek took place in Ala Too Square, where about 3,000 military personnel marched in formation. Although traditionally held on May 9, this year’s event was rescheduled due to President Sadyr Japarov’s visit to Moscow, prompting the celebration to occur a day earlier.
In his address, President Japarov paid tribute to the over 360,000 Kyrgyz soldiers who served during the war, noting that every fourth citizen of Kyrgyzstan joined the fight—half of whom never returned.
"We proudly remember our ancestors who fought shoulder to shoulder with representatives of all the peoples of the Soviet Union," Japarov said. "They showed the world an example of heroism and fearlessness inherited from the great Manas."
Meanwhile, in Dushanbe, the military parade was held as scheduled in Galaba Park, with more than 4,500 personnelparticipating. Tajik President Emomali Rahmon emphasized the heavy human toll the war exacted on Tajikistan. More than 300,000 people, or nearly half the country’s working-age population, went to war; over 100,000 died, 40,000 were declared missing, and 60,000 returned disabled.
“These sacrifices, forever etched in our modern history, represent the contribution of the Tajik people to this great victory and to ensuring peace and security throughout the world,” Rahmon stated. He also reminded the nation of the over 100,000 refugees Tajikistan sheltered during the war, highlighting the people's generosity and solidarity.
President Rahmon concluded, “We are proud of the courage of our ancestors. Each of them achieved victory both at the front and behind the front. Their steadfastness is our eternal guide.”
Earlier this week, Kazakhstan held its own parade on May 7, showcasing over 200 military units and 66 aircraft and helicopters. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in his remarks, announced plans to name 500 streets across the country after Kazakh fighters.
“Today, when the germs of aggression and hatred have entered global politics, it is very important to convey the whole truth about war,” Tokayev said. “Without truth, it is impossible to know the value of peace.”
The military parades across Central Asia served as a collective act of remembrance and national pride, reaffirming the region's shared legacy and sacrifices in the fight against fascism.
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