The guests were informed that the activity of the Heydar Aliyev Center is aimed at a deep study of the statehood philosophy of Azerbaijan’s national leader Heydar Aliyev, the ideology of Azerbaijanism and the great leader’s heritage.
It was also noted that the center was built on the design by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid.
The center, which is one of the unique examples of architecture and distinct for its versatility, has all the conditions for holding official receptions, various international conferences, meetings and other events.
The guests visited the Heydar Aliyev Museum, the “Auditorium”, as well as the exhibition halls “Masterpieces of Azerbaijan”, “Mini-Azerbaijan”, “Welcome to Azerbaijan”, and “Photos of Azerbaijani Cuisine”.
They expressed admiration for the expositions and unusual architecture of the Heydar Aliyev Center.
Harold McGahern from the Horse Sport Ireland, the Irish governing body for equestrian sport, said “I am delighted with what I saw, and also with a warm welcome! The building of the Heydar Aliyev Center is really unique in its architectural, artistic and engineering solutions. The modern technologies and educational materials about Azerbaijan’s history, culture and art allowed me to even more learn about your beautiful country.”
Josephine Finding of the British Equestrian Federation said, “I have heard a lot about the Heydar Aliyev Center, and I know that this year the building was recognized in London as the best in the world in terms of design [the ‘Design of the Year’ prize]. But when I saw this beauty with my own eyes, it made a staggering impression on me. Here you feel very comfortable and free as at home. In general, I have the most favorable impressions of Azerbaijan. It is a great country with ancient history and hospitable people.”
George Dimaras from the Hellenic Equestrian Federation said, “The Heydar Aliyev Center gives Baku, where the East and West intersect, a special beauty and gracefulness. I have been impressed not only by expositions. I have for the first time seen such a staggering four-story ‘Auditorium’. I also really liked the landscape area comprised of beautiful trees and flowers.”
Marc Revue of the Royal Belgian Equestrian Federation said, “I have been to many cities in Europe and I have seen many cultural centers, but the Heydar Aliyev Center made a special impression on me with its original design solution. There are virtually no straight lines and the building in its form is a wavy upward aspiration and a smooth merger with the ground. We have been told that this structure embodies not only the postmodernist architecture style, but also the continuity and infinity. And the lines on the building symbolize the link between the past and the future. It is fantastic!.”
Francisca Ploegmakers from the Royal Dutch Equestrian Federation said, “The visit to the Heydar Aliyev Center will long remain in my memory as a fascinating journey to the history and culture of Azerbaijan. During only one visit I could see unique exhibits, models, and photographs reflecting the country’s history and its cultural heritage, coins, jewelry, pottery and copper articles of the Middle Ages, ancient copies of the Koran, the Bible and the Torah, samples of national clothing, magnificent carpets and musical instruments. I have had a wonderful experience!.”
The General Assembly of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) is one of the key events in the world of equestrian sport. It is annually held in different cities, and was held in Baku on December 11-14, 2014 for the first time.
More than 350 representatives have been accredited to attend the meetings, and this is a record in the history of the FEI General Assembly.
The forum, which brings together representatives of all national equestrian federations, will discuss and settle the most important issues of development of all equestrian disciplines, problems of funding, management and so on.
In connection with the election of the president of the International Equestrian Federation, the FEI General Assembly in Baku will be the focus of world attention.
Presidential candidates are Ingmar De Vos (Belgium), Pierre Durand (France), Pierre Genesand (Switzerland), Ulf Helgstand (Denmark), John McEwen (England) and Javier Revuelta del Peral (Spain).
A gala evening will be organized by the FEI and the Equestrian Federation of Azerbaijan (ARAF) in ‘Buta Palace’ on Dec. 14. Best athletes, breeders, teams of young athletes, etc. will be awarded in various categories.
The guests will also enjoy tours in Baku, during which they will visit the Museum of Carpet, the National Flag Square, Heydar Aliyev Center and "Gala" State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve.
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