The President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon sent a congratulatory telegram to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, which reads, in particular:

"Dear Islam Abduganievich,

On the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of Uzbekistan I extend you my sincere congratulations.

Tajikistan is committed to the noble cause of strengthening of the relations of friendship, good neighborliness, mutual respect and cooperation between our two countries, which have deep historical roots.

We are ready to develop confidential political dialogue in order to intensify and improve relations between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan in all areas of mutual interest.

I wish you, dear Islam Abduganievich, good health and success, and the friendly people of Uzbekistan - well-being and prosperity”.