In his congratulatory message to President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, Mr Putin expressed confidence that respect for our shared history and mutual commitment to further deepening cooperation between the two states will continue to serve as a reliable basis for progress in Russia and Uzbekistan in strengthening our alliance and strategic partnership.

“As we celebrate this date, which is so special for Russia and Uzbekistan, as well as all the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States, we feel proud of the unparalleled heroism, courage and resilience of the older generations, who have preserved peace and freedom for our peoples”.

“We will always honour the memory of those who gave their lives in the battlefields, and will treat our dear veterans with the utmost care and gratitude, both the soldiers and the selfless home front workers,” Mr Putin wrote.