Tajikistan marked the 35th anniversary of its independence with a military parade in Dushanbe, where more than 27,000 personnel took part in a ceremonial march at Independence Square.

The parade featured soldiers from the armed forces, security and law enforcement structures, as well as military veterans and female personnel.

Celebrations continued at the National Stadium, where a large cultural programme was held to mark the anniversary.

The newly opened 30,000-seat stadium hosted a theatrical performance titled “35 Fateful Years”, bringing together music, poetry and performances by Tajik artists.