Extensive endeavors were embarked on in Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Islam Karimov from the very first days of national independence to restore the names of our forefathers who had given their lives for the freedom of the Motherland and to perpetuate memory of them.

Extensive endeavors were embarked on in Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Islam Karimov from the very first days of national independence to restore the names of our forefathers who had given their lives for the freedom of the Motherland and to perpetuate memory of them. Establishment of the Shahidlar Khotirasi (Memory of the Fallen for Freedom) memorial complex in Tashkent and declaration of August 31 as the Day of Remembrance of Repression Victims constitute the expression of deep respect and reverence for the memory of the best sons of our people.

As the tradition goes, in the early hours of August 31 the Shahidlar Khotirasi memorial complex hosted an event in tribute to the memory of our compatriots who fell for the freedom and independence of the native land.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov took part in the event.

The head of our state expressed his views about the socio-political processes taking place in the country today and the world, and outlined the ways of addressing the important tasks standing out in connection with this.

Visiting these kinds of shrines, remembering our compatriots who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the nation, we realize more profoundly what price of a great loss and hardship has been paid for the independence of our country, for the current peace and prosperity. At this moment one realizes all the greatest significance of the independence dreamed about by our ancestors for centuries.

Every one of knows well what a great deal of efforts has been undertaken in the years of independence toward the revival of our spiritual values, increasing the realization of national identity. However, the rapidly changing life, the challenges and requirements of the times confront us with ever new tasks. Issues related to upbringing the younger generation in the spirit of respect for national and universal values, guarding them from destructive ideas foreign to our mentality have been gaining in urgency, Islam Karimov insisted.

We must never forget that those who, pursuing their own selfish interests, push these vicious ideas, first and foremost, seeking to disorient the youths who still do not have sufficient experience and firm socio-political stance, to use them for their disparaging plans, the head of our state said. Therefore, we should always be vigilant and careful, and protect our young people from the negative impact of the ideas alien to us.

President Islam Karimov visited the Mustaqillik (Independence) Square and laid wreath to the Monument of Independence and Humanism, a symbol of our freedom, bright future and noble aspirations. The head of state noted the need to further continue the improvement and landscaping of the Square, with special attention paid to planting even more of ornamental trees, shrubs and flowers that cater to our climate.

The President of our country also visited the Republican Children’s and Youth’s Specialized Chess School of Olympic Reserve, whose building combines the traditions of national architecture art and modern designing solutions. Islam Karimov reviewed the hall for holding international chess tournaments and the opportunities available for chess players. Corresponding officials received relevant instructions pertinent to further improving the conditions created here.

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On the same day, flowers were laid to the Monument of Independence and Humanism by representatives of the Oliy Majlis, Cabinet of Ministers, ministries, other government agencies and the general public of the nation.