Nobel laureate Aziz Sancar honored as ‘Cultural Ambassador of Turkic World’

Nobel-winning Turkish scientist, Professor Aziz Sancar, has been awarded the “Cultural Ambassador of the Turkic World” title by TURKSOY, a cultural organization representing Turkic-speaking countries.

The award ceremony took place at the Aziz & Gwen Sancar Foundation in North Carolina, where Sancar received the prestigious pin from TURKSOY Secretary-General Sultan Raev.

Acknowledgement of Sancar’s scientific and cultural contributions

In his speech during the ceremony, Secretary-General Raev expressed his admiration for Sancar, stating, “You are not only a scientist but also a reflection of the collective consciousness and scientific genius of the Turkic World. Your work, which has contributed to all of humanity with the Nobel Prize, is an example for the whole world due to your humility and hard work, reflecting the values of Turkish culture.” Raev emphasized that Sancar is a source of pride and inspiration for the Turkic world.

The decision to award him the title was made unanimously by the TURKSOY Permanent Council members during their 40th meeting in Shusha, Azerbaijan.

Dream come true for Aziz Sancar

In his emotional speech, Sancar shared his deep appreciation for the honor. He stated that this title holds more significance for him than any award, including the Nobel Prize.

“This award is more valuable to me than all other honors. It was my dream. TURKSOY is a very esteemed institution, and I hope it will continue to represent us globally,” he said. Sancar also reflected on the historical challenges faced by the Turkic peoples in achieving unity.

“Throughout history, the Turkic tribes did not always act together. But today, if we can speak of unity, it is due to the contributions of our heads of state, those with a deep awareness of Turkic identity, and institutions like TURKSOY,” he noted.

Celebrating Turkic culture with gifts

At the end of the ceremony, Raev presented Sancar with a selection of gifts representing the unity and rich culture of the Turkic World.

Among the gifts were a chapan from Kazakhstan, a kalpak from Kyrgyzstan, a national sash from Uzbekistan, a wolf-headed cane from Türkiye, a Har-i Bulbul lapel pin symbolizing the Karabakh Victory from Azerbaijan, and a special edition of Mahtumkulu Firaki from Turkmenistan.

Momentous occasion for Turkic world

The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Melih Seyfettin Gungor, the counsellor of the Republic of Türkiye’s Embassy in Washington, friends of the Sancar family, as well as young people and university students from diverse backgrounds.

Professor Sancar’s recognition as the “Cultural Ambassador of the Turkic World” not only celebrates his scientific achievements but also acknowledges his role in bridging cultures and promoting unity within the Turkic community.