YAOUNDE, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- Chad on Monday commemorated the 65th anniversary of Independence Day with various events held nationwide, highlighted by a military band parade in the national capital of N'Djamena.

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, who presided over the parade, laid wreaths at the War Memorial in the capital in tribute to the sons and daughters of the country who died fighting for their motherland.

In other parts of the country, tens of thousands of people gathered to watch mechanized units and infantry march in front of dignitaries as Armed Forces aircraft and helicopters flew overhead.

The Chadian presidency said in a statement that the 65th commemoration "was part of a dynamic of renewed peace, strengthening of national sovereignty and consolidation of republican institutions."

"It was an opportunity for the nation to celebrate its glorious past, while affirming its desire to build a future of stability, prosperity, and cohesion. A sovereignty won in blood and dignity," the statement said.

Chad formally achieved its independence from France on Aug. 11, 1960. ■