DUSHANBE, September 8, 2009, Asia-Plus  -- President Emomali Rahmon has made a televised appeal to the people of Tajikistan on occasion of the 18th anniversary of Tajikistan’s Independence, which is marked on September 9.

In his appeal, Tajik leader, in particular, noted that if other former Soviet republics had gained independence with comparative ease, Thad had paid deadly for its independence and the main reason for that was the civil war that had been initiated mainly from abroad.

“At the cost great efforts and heavy sacrifice we stopped this war, reestablished peace and accord on our ancient soil and got down to constructive labor for wellbeing and prosperity of people and our state,” the resident noted in his appeal.

In his appeal, Rahmon also dwelled on effects of the global financial crisis and ways to overcome it.  “Despite the global crisis, we are continuing to implement three strategic goals: ensuring energy independence; bringing the country out of transportation impasse; and ensuring food security of the country,” he said.

In the meantime, a grant meeting and a concert dedicated to Tajikistan’s National Day will be held at the Kokhi Borbad in Dushanbe today.

According to the Ministry of Culture, senior representatives from the government, MPs, Tajik intelligentsia, youth organizations as well as representatives of diplomatic missions active in Tajikistan have been invited to attend the event.

Visiting Indian President Pratibha Patil will also take part at the National Day celebrations of Tajikistan.