Festive congratulations on the 34th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan and on the Day of the Defenders of the Fatherland

(Tashkent, January 14, 2026)

Dear soldiers and sergeants, officers and generals,

Veterans of the Armed Forces,

Dear compatriots,

I sincerely congratulate all of you, our multiethnic people, on the 34th anniversary of the establishment of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan and on the Day of the Defenders of the Fatherland.

On this significant day, we once again express our deep respect and gratitude to our brave soldiers, always loyal to their military oath, who have dedicated their lives to an extremely honorable and responsible mission: the reliable defense of our Motherland, ensuring the independence and territorial integrity of our country.

At the same time, we pay tribute to the heroes who gave their lives in the line of duty to the Motherland.

Today, our nation is achieving great successes and reaching new heights in the path toward building the New Uzbekistan. It is fair to say that in the truly historic transformations taking place across all areas of our lives, there is also your worthy contribution – that of our valiant Armed Forces.

We are rightfully proud of you – the heirs of the glorious traditions of our great ancestors, loyal sons of the Motherland, resolute and relentless against the enemy, vigilant and always ready to repel any attack in battle formation.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the parents who raised such fearless, courageous, and heroic defenders for our country, as well as to their families, who throughout all the years of military service share in their joys and hardships, remaining a reliable support and pillar.

Dear friends,

In recent years, within the framework of the “Uzbekistan–2030” Strategy, we have been carrying out large-scale work to enhance the combat capability of our Armed Forces, which have become one of the reliable guarantors of the irreversibility of our reforms. In particular, the management and supply system is being modernized and improved through advanced information technologies; professional officers and sergeants, trained according to new educational and training standards, are joining the army.

The level of combat readiness, as well as the professional, intellectual, and spiritual potential of servicemen, is steadily increasing. The Armed Forces are gradually being equipped with modern weaponry and military equipment. Effective work continues to promote the interest of young people in military service, its cultivation in a spirit of patriotism, and further strengthening the close ties and unity between the people and the army.

Today, we all see and understand how rapidly the situation on the political and military map of the world is changing.

In various regions, the geopolitical situation is becoming increasingly complex, conflicts and bloodshed are intensifying. Modern technologies and next-generation weaponry are emerging, and strategies and tactics of combat are evolving.

In this context, we will modernize combat methods and management according to current requirements, paying special attention to training highly qualified military personnel fully prepared for new conditions.

Our priority will continue to be the constant enhancement of morale and physical fitness of servicemen, and the strengthening of their patriotic feelings. For the outcome of any battle is determined by knowledge and skills, will and determination, self-confidence, and the combat qualities of personnel.

Equipping the national army with modern weapons and military technology, including AI-based robotic systems, as well as implementing advanced information technologies in troop management and decision-making processes, will remain at the center of our focus.

We will intensify efforts to improve social protection and the well-being of military personnel and their families. In this regard, particular attention will be paid to the active participation of state and civil institutions and the wider public.

Every soldier should always feel the unity between the army and the people, the support of Uzbekistan’s entire 38-million-strong population, and draw strength, energy, and inspiration from it.

I am confident that our valiant soldiers, who match anyone in courage and enthusiasm, while deeply studying the timeless legacy of our heroic ancestors, who fought fearlessly and never bowed before the enemy, will always follow their precepts and honorably fulfill their sacred duty to the country.

Dear defenders of the Fatherland,

On this momentous occasion, I once again congratulate you wholeheartedly on today’s celebration, wishing you great success in your noble service toward strengthening the state’s defense capability, as well as health, peace, and well-being for your families.

I wish you new achievements in service to the Motherland.

Shavkat MIRZIYOYEV
President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces