Military parade on Fatherland Defender's Day in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s President Nursultan Nazarbayev took part in a celebratory military parade to commemorate the Defenders of the Fatherland Day, Tengrinews reports. The parade was held on the 7 of May in Astana’s Kazakh Eli [The Land of Kazakhs] square.

“I appeal to you, the defenders of the fatherland, honorably perform your sacred duty. Your main task is to protect the tranquility of your native land, range youselves in protection of our independence. You should always be an example of honor, responsibility, patriotism for all the generations of Kazakhstanis. The today's parade is yet another opportunity to show the strength, high morale and proficiency of our army, " Nazarbayev said opening the parade.

The President pointed out that there were all the necessary conditions for servicemen in the country: "The (Kazakhtan) army is equipped with modern weapons. Exercises are conducted regularly."

Social support to soldiers and officers is available, new facilities, such as better military camps, new homes and sports facilities are being built, he said.

The country’s Armed Forces, agencies of the National Security and of the Interior, State Security Service, the National Guard, and the Ministry of Emergency Situations adequately perform all the responsibilities assigned to them, the President said.

This year’s parade was held with the participation of the new defense minister of Kazakhstan Serik Akhmetov.

Lieutenant General Murat Maykeev, the Commander of Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Kzaakhstan, led the parade.

The parade involved the servicemen of the Ministries of Defence and Interior, Ministry of Emergency Situations, the National Security Committee (KNB), the State Security Service of Kazakhstan. More than 2,500 militarymen participated in the military march in foot columns. 








Military vehicles and aircraft were also on display. Over 200 pieces of military equipment were shown in the procession. Part of this military equipment was upgraded or released by domestic enterprises of Kazakhstan's military-industrial complex.

"Dear people of Kazakhstan, I heartily congratulate you on the Day of the Defender of the Fatherland! Long live our glorious army! Long live our Kazakhstan!" Nazarbayev concluded. After these words, a collective “Hurrah!” was repeated three times, resonating all across the square.

Reporting by Altynai Zhumzhumina
All Photos © Turar Kazangapov 
Written by Dinara Urazova