Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A memorial ceremony was held at the Embassy of Israel in Tashkent to mark the 21st anniversary of the terrorist attack that took place on July 30, 2004. The attack claimed the lives of National Security Service officer Vyacheslav Makarov and embassy security officer Azat Salyakhov.

The event was attended by representatives of the State Security Service and the National Guard of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Metropolitan Vikenty, the head of the Jewish community, a representative of the Muslim Board, family members of the victims, representatives of the Abdulla Qahhor mahalla, as well as the U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan.

The memory of the victims was honored with the lighting of memorial candles, a moment of silence, and the laying of flowers.

In his remarks, the Israeli Ambassador praised the courage and dedication of Vyacheslav Makarov and Azat Salyakhov, noting that they gave their lives in the line of duty. He described the ceremony as a symbol of the centuries-old friendship between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Israel.

Vyacheslav’s wife, Irina, also delivered an emotional speech, recalling the family’s cherished memories, while mahalla representative Feruza Aripova emphasized the importance of preserving the memory of the fallen and expressed gratitude for the organization of the ceremony.

The event served as a poignant reminder of the high price paid by those who protect others and the importance of honoring the memory of heroes.