"With deep sorrow I accepted the news of the heavy loss in connection with the death of the prominent writer, thinker and sociopolitical figure Chingiz Aitmatov," Islam Karimov wrote.

"Reflecting the reality in artistic images, deeply affecting our feelings, Chingiz Aitmatov with his works made a great contribution to the world literature," the head of the state said.

"Chingiz Aitmatov has been and will remain close to the Uzbek people, he will live forever in our memories as a symbol of selfless and dedicated service to his Motherland," the President of Uzbekistan stressed.