International architectural presentation of Heydar Aliyev Center held in Baku

Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5 By Seba Agayeva - Trend: International architectural presentation of the Heydar Aliyev Center was held in Baku on Nov. 5. The ceremony was attended by the Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva. In his speech the Director of the Heydar Aliyev Centre, Anar Alakbarov noted that any region of Azerbaijan, including the ancient Baku are rich by its rare architectural samples thanks to the original style and engineer solutions. "Masterpieces created by our national architects in various periods are the pearls of the cultural life. They help to foster and develop the national vision and the aesthetical taste. Still today, a number of architectural monuments impress specialists by their unique, original style and very attractive features," Anar Alakbarov said. According to Alakbarov, the nationwide development works carried out in all regions of Azerbaijan, which develops each day, thanks to the successful policy of Mr. Ilham Aliyev, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, create a new image of the country. "During construction works in Baku that combines Eastern and Western architectural styles, a particular attention is paid to the harmony between our national traditions of architecture and the modernity. We give a possibility to reflect modern architecture ideas, and preserve, at the same time, the ancient architectural traditions," Director of the Heydar Aliyev Center said. During recent years, rare masterpieces that attract attention by the idea and architecture have been constructed in our capital, he said. "One of them is the building of the Heydar Aliyev Center that is differs by its modernity and multiple functions. With its original style, the building makes Baku's architectural structure particularly attractive," Anar Alakbarov said. The building which has soon become the symbol of modern Baku is inserted into the world architecture list. "Today, we are pleased to have with us the world known architecture and the author of project Madam Zaha Hadid at this remarkable architectural presentation of the building of the Heydar Aliyev Center," Alakbarov said. According to Alakbarov the creations of Madam Zaha Hadid who is known all over the world by her new solutions, ideas and achievements give a particular beauty to many countries. As it goes with each monument authored by Madam Zaha Hadid, the building of the Heydar Aliyev Center impresses also by its architectural subtle elements, design and harmonic interior, and by its environment in general, he said. "I take today this opportunity to thank Madam Zaha Hadid and all the people involved in the project for making such a unique project possible in our native Baku," he added. In turn, Zaha Hadid in her speech expressed gratitude to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. She said it was an incredible experience and achievement for everyone. "I would like to thank all, who participated in this project, as well as my old and new friends from various world countries, such as Lebanon, Turkey, the U.S., China and others," she said. The Chairman of the Union of Architects of Azerbaijan, distinguished architect Elbay Gasimzade in his turn said that a significant event is taking place today in Azerbaijan's architectural life, namely the presentation of a building which is named after the national leader of Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev. "Azerbaijani art of building has an old and rich history and traditions. Today, as it was in the beginning of the last century, beautiful masterpieces are created by the famous architects in Azerbaijan. One of them is the world-famous Zaha Hadid," he said. Gasimzade said Zaha Hadid has been awarded honorary member of the Union of Architects of Azerbaijan. He added that Hadid was also awarded the medal named after Academician Mikayil Huseynov. A concert was held at the end of the presentation. State Chamber Orchestra of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani State Orchestra of National Instruments, Azerbaijani State Dance Ensemble as well as well-known personalities of art also participated in the concert. The dances, accompanied by music of F. Amirov, U. Hajibayli, M. Mirzoyev, A. Tagiyev were performed, as well as the overture of U.Hajibeyli's 'Arshin mal alan' musical comedy, Gulchohra's aria from this operetta and other pieces of art were performed.