The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) awarded Nobel laureate Professor Aziz Sancar the prestigious “Ali Shir Nevai International Award” at its 11th summit, held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on November 6, 2024. The award, named after the revered Turkic poet and scholar Ali Shir Nevai, recognizes exceptional contributions to science, culture, and the promotion of shared Turkic heritage and values.

Honoring a Scientific Icon: Professor Aziz Sancar 

Professor Aziz Sancar, a Turkish biochemist and molecular biologist, has been an inspiring figure for the Turkic world. Born in Türkiye, he received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2015 alongside two other scientists for his pioneering work on DNA repair, a field crucial for understanding cancer and other diseases. His contributions have had a global impact, advancing scientific understanding and opening pathways for medical research.

Professor Sancar has frequently highlighted his roots in the Turkic world and expressed pride in the shared cultural and historical ties between Türkiye and other Turkic nations. Beyond his scientific achievements, Sancar has actively promoted educational initiatives, especially in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) for youth, which aligns with the OTS’s mission of fostering innovation and intellectual growth within Turkic communities.

The Ali Shir Nevai International Award 

Named after Ali Shir Nevai, a 15th-century poet and cultural icon, the “Ali Shir Nevai International Award” celebrates individuals whose work has greatly enriched Turkic culture or advanced the welfare and unity of the Turkic people. Nevai, known for his contributions to the Turkic literary tradition, is celebrated for advocating for the use of the Turkic language in scholarship and literature, which has had lasting influence on Turkic cultural identity.

By presenting Professor Sancar with this award, the OTS honors his invaluable contributions to science and his dedication to promoting education and cultural pride among Turkic youth. His achievements and values are seen as embodying the spirit of unity and progress that the OTS aims to foster across the Turkic world.

An Award with Global Resonance 

The recognition of Professor Sancar’s achievements at the OTS summit reflects the Turkic world’s commitment to honoring and promoting individuals who contribute positively to global understanding, scientific advancement, and cultural enrichment. The award serves as a reminder of the potential within the Turkic community to inspire future generations and make significant contributions to the international stage.

The 11th OTS Summit: Strengthening Ties in the Turkic World 

This year’s OTS summit, themed “Strengthening the Turkic World: Economic Integration, Sustainable Development, Digital Future, and Security for All,” brought together leaders and dignitaries from member and observer states, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Hungary, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Hosted by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, the summit addressed critical issues of regional cooperation and shared progress among the Turkic nations.

In addition to the award ceremony, the summit saw significant discussions and decisions aimed at enhancing economic integration, security cooperation, and digital innovation. The event emphasized the Turkic world’s commitment to sustainable development and cultural unity, with new initiatives to support green finance, digital transformation, and infrastructural collaboration among OTS members.