An explicit homomorphism that relates the elements of the infinite
dimensional non-Abelian algebra generating Oq(sl2^) currents and the
standard generators of the q−Onsager algebra is proposed. Two straightforward
applications of the result are then considered: First, for the class of quantum
integrable models which integrability condition originates in the q−Onsager
spectrum generating algebra, the infinite q−deformed Dolan-Grady hierarchy is
derived - bypassing the transfer matrix formalism. Secondly, higher
Askey-Wilson relations that arise in the study of symmetric special functions
generalizing the Askey-Wilson q−orthogonal polynomials are proposed.Comment: 11 page