205th anniversary of Peru's independence – military parade and new president: the country embarks on a new chapter
When soldiers march and armoured wheels rumble, the city falls into solemn silence – this is not just a show of force, but a living thread connecting past and present. Two hundred and five years ago, here in Lima, words of freedom were proclaimed, and every year this day reminds us that independence is not a full stop in history, but an ongoing journey. It demands protection, memory and faith in tomorrow. And when the military, police, pilots and sailors take to the parade ground, the nation tells itself and the world: we exist, we remember, we are ready.
On Wednesday, a military parade was held in the Peruvian capital to mark the 205th anniversary of the country's independence. On 28 July 1821, José de San Martín proclaimed Peru's independence from Spanish rule. Every year on 29 July, the country holds a military parade in commemoration of this historic event. This year's celebrations took place in the squares and streets of Lima, with contingents from the army, navy, air force, police and counter-terrorism units taking part. A wide range of military hardware was displayed, clearly illustrating Peru's progress in modernising national defence in recent years. Columns marched to the applause of thousands of citizens, while military aviation performed a fly-past over the city.
Notably, this year's parade was held the day after the swearing-in ceremony of Keiko Fujimori as Peru's president. This year's Independence Day celebrations thus also marked a symbolic start to a new political chapter for the country. Traditionally, military parades in Peru are held on 29 July, regardless of the day of the week, and attract tens of thousands of spectators. They serve not only to demonstrate defence capabilities, but also as an important element of national identity, strengthening Peruvians' sense of unity and pride.
As CCTV+ reports, the events were held in an atmosphere of high patriotic spirit, with the new president taking part in the ceremony, underscoring the continuity of state traditions and a commitment to the country's peaceful development.
