His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan,
Distinguished guests,
Esteemed representatives of the global architectural community,
Laureates of the Award,
For the Kyrgyz Republic, hosting the Aga Khan Award for Architecture ceremony is a great honour and a profound responsibility.
We regard the participation of more than 200 prominent architects, scholars and high-ranking guests from various countries of the world in this grand event as a sign of respect and appreciation for our nation. We are delighted to welcome you to the Ala-Too mountains, in the warm and hospitable land of Kyrgyzstan.
Through this grand ceremony, we find ourselves at the centre of the world community’s attention. Such events are rare. Global sports Olympiads, world competitions in culture and the arts, and international exhibitions of science and technology belong to this same category of historic events. Therefore, we believe that this day will hold great significance in our history.
Organising the World Nomad Games was already a major event that captured global attention. Today, we are witnessing the grand ceremony of a worldwide architectural competition.
This Award, which holds special significance for the global community, has for nearly half a century been not only a recognition of outstanding architectural projects but also a symbol of humanism, cultural diversity and the pursuit of harmony between people and nature.
Unlike many other awards, the Aga Khan Award celebrates buildings not only for their beauty or form; it also considers their impact on society, their role in preserving cultural heritage and their significance in community development. This Award clearly demonstrates that architecture is not a display of wealth, but a necessity and a responsibility to future generations.
In a time challenged by climate change, urbanisation and social trials, it is precisely such projects that give us hope and show the way toward building a sustainable and just future.
Kyrgyzstan has long been distinguished by its rich history, deep culture and unique architecture. The lifestyle and cultural values of our people have been reflected for centuries in architectural monuments. The ancient cities of Balasagyn and Uzgen, the historic Burana Tower, the architectural complex and mausoleums in Uzgen, and the caravanserais in Tash-Rabat – all of these testify to the creativity of our ancestors and their contribution to world civilisation.
Today, building on this heritage, we strive not only to carefully preserve it and pass it on to future generations but also to develop contemporary architecture. New constructions grounded in national characteristics and historical traditions define the identity of our country and become another remarkable symbol introducing Kyrgyzstan to the world.
In recent years, Kyrgyzstan’s construction sector has been developing particularly dynamically. Millions of square metres of housing have been put into use, and modern schools, kindergartens, hospitals, sports complexes and cultural centres are being built.
As of now, a new chapter in large-scale construction and architectural development is unfolding. Among these projects are:
- The construction of Kemin-City, a new environmentally friendly city that will become a modern centre for living and business;
- The new Jalal-Abad Airport, designed not only to enhance transit capabilities but also to incorporate energy-efficient and modern engineering solutions;
- The Ala-Too Resort mountain-ski cluster, globally competitive yet environmentally responsible, protecting and supporting nature rather than harming it;
- The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway corridor, which will significantly strengthen the region’s transport and economic connectivity.
These are projects that ensure not only infrastructural development but also ecological balance.
In addition, modern schools and medical complexes being built in the regions will adhere to green standards. Furthermore, environmentally friendly technologies will be applied in the reconstruction of international highways, as well as in the construction of bridges and engineering structures, minimising their impact on the environment.
All these initiatives not only transform the architectural appearance of our cities and villages but also create green urban environments and establish infrastructure in harmony with nature. Along with creating new jobs and strengthening social and cultural spaces, they ensure architectural development.
Today, we stand to congratulate and honour the winners and participants of the 16th cycle of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. It is especially symbolic that this ceremony takes place during the 25-year period of cooperation between the Kyrgyz Republic and the Aga Khan Development Network.
The partnership between the Kyrgyz Republic and the Aga Khan Development Network over the past quarter-century has been built on trust, mutual support and creativity. Within the framework of this cooperation, joint projects in education, health care and culture have been implemented, making a significant contribution to improving the quality of life for citizens. We are ready to continue strengthening this trusted relationship and to implement new initiatives together.
Dear laureates,
Each of your projects inspires millions of people around the world. You have demonstrated that architecture is not merely a collection of walls and roofs, but a commitment to caring for people, protecting their dignity and safeguarding their future.
As seen in the video above, the Khudi Bari project by Marina Tabassum Architects in Bangladesh offers a replicable solution made of bamboo and steel for communities forced to relocate due to climatic and geographical changes. The community centre in West Wusutu Village, China, was restored using brick and has become a new space for culture and dialogue, taking into account the traditions and needs of the local Hui Muslim community.
The Revitalisation of Historic Esna project in Egypt transformed a neglected area into a thriving centre of culture and tourism, while in Iran, the Majara complex on Hormuz Island and the renovated Jahad metro station in Tehran demonstrated how traditional materials combined with innovation can breathe new life into public spaces. In Pakistan, the Vision Pakistan Center in Islamabad has become a source of education and hope for youth, and in Palestine, the Wonder Cabinet in Bethlehem united craftsmanship, innovation and culture in a unique model of connected architecture.
Each of these projects is unique in its own way. Yet, they all share a common goal – to make architecture a tool for transformation and innovation. They serve as a factor that strengthens society and fosters unity among citizens, becoming symbols that connect generations and values. Moreover, these projects act as a bridge between traditional architecture and contemporary trends, preserving national identity while creating new spaces that meet global standards.
On behalf of the people of Kyrgyzstan, allow me to express our deep gratitude to His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan. Thanks to your leadership, the Award is serving as a unique platform that brings together architects, engineers, scholars, artisans and local communities. Your contribution to the development of culture, education and architecture is invaluable.
The Aga Khan Award for Architecture is a great initiative that reminds us that buildings are a mirror of society. The cities and structures we create today will shape the face of tomorrow. It also reflects the values we will pass on to future generations.
Kyrgyzstan will continue to develop its construction sector, taking confident steps toward creating modern cities and villages where every individual feels part of a harmonious space, where nature and culture are preserved, and where they become the foundation of progress.
I wholeheartedly congratulate all the winners of the 16th cycle of the Award! I express my deep gratitude to the organisers and wish you renewed inspiration, bold ideas and a firm belief that your work will make the world a better place.
May the Aga Khan Award for Architecture continue to serve as a symbol of hope, creativity and mutual understanding for all humanity!
Thank you for your attention.