Eldar Aitmatov is actively involved in cultural diplomacy, heading the foundation named after his father, and also holding the position of vice-president at the state institution "National Academy 'Manas' and Chyngyz Aitmatov." In an interview with AKIpress, he shared his impressions of the victory and talked about future plans.
"I believe that this award is a recognition of the work of our international Aitmatov foundation. We are engaged in various projects aimed at strengthening cultural ties and bringing peoples together on the Eurasian continent. By popularizing Aitmatov's creativity, we are building bridges of friendship between our countries. His works are published in many languages and are popular in Eurasia — for example, in Turkey, four of Aitmatov's books are included in the school curriculum," Eldar Aitmatov noted.
He emphasized that Aitmatov's name is known to many in Eurasia, and his works are familiar to a wide audience. "He always emphasized his identity as a Eurasian and dreamed of a unified Eurasian space that could unite us and facilitate coexistence in peace and harmony," he added.
The laureate confessed that the nomination was a surprise for him. "When your years of hard work receive such high recognition, it inspires! It creates a new incentive to work even harder for the common good. I believe that the 'Eurasia' prize should unite and give hope, showing what we should strive for," he noted.
Eldar also emphasized that he sees this award not only as his own but as a prize for the entire people of Kyrgyzstan. "This is not just my award, but an achievement for all Kyrgyz people. It was received thanks to the Aitmatov foundation, which belongs to all of Kyrgyzstan!" he declared.
More than 3,700 applications were submitted for the competition from 27 countries, including Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Georgia, Italy, Spain, and others. It was noted at the award ceremony that Kyrgyzstan became one of the most active participants, submitting the largest number of applications.
The prize fund for the first international "Eurasia" award amounted to 25 million rubles. This award aims to recognize outstanding contributions to the development of Eurasian countries in the fields of preserving traditional values, culture, education, volunteering, people's diplomacy, and historical truth. That evening, winners were determined in 15 different nominations.
