President Ilham Aliyev Receives “Chinghiz Aitmatov” Order in Bishkek

Bishkek, The Gulf Observer: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was awarded the “Chinghiz Aitmatov” Order during a formal ceremony held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, honoring his contributions to cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan.

President Aliyev visited the Chinghiz Aitmatov house-museum, located at the “Ala Archa” State Residence near Bishkek. The residence, which served as home to the esteemed Kyrgyz writer from 1986 until his passing, is a living testament to Aitmatov’s legacy, housing his personal belongings, manuscripts, and awards. The museum was inaugurated on December 12, 2014, through the efforts of Aitmatov’s family, particularly his wife, Maria Urmatovna, and their children, Eldar and Shirin. Eldar Aitmatov, who resides in another part of the house with his family, has meticulously preserved the atmosphere of the residence as it was during the writer’s life.

The house-museum also hosts the Chinghiz Aitmatov International Foundation, founded by Aitmatov himself in 2000. The foundation, now managed by his children, continues to advance cultural and educational projects inspired by his works. President Aliyev signed the guest book during his visit, underscoring the profound connection between Azerbaijan and the legacy of Chinghiz Aitmatov.

Chinghiz Aitmatov’s work and influence have long been celebrated in Azerbaijan. In 2008, Azerbaijan’s National Leader Heydar Aliyev referred to Aitmatov as “the pride of the Turkish world.” That same year, President Ilham Aliyev awarded Aitmatov the first “Friendship” Order. Recently, on April 24, a monument honoring Aitmatov was unveiled in Baku, with the Presidents of Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan in attendance.

The prestigious “Chinghiz Aitmatov” Order was presented to President Aliyev in recognition of his efforts to strengthen cultural bonds between Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan, symbolizing a shared commitment to preserving the enduring legacy of Aitmatov’s literary heritage.