Beijing, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) — The First World Conference of Classics was held in Beijing from November 6 to 8. On November 7, Li Shulei, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, attended the opening ceremony, read the congratulatory letter from Chinese President Xi Jinping, and delivered remarks. Evgenios Kalpyris, Greek Ambassador to China, read the congratulatory letter from Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, sent a written message.

Participants at the conference noted that the congratulatory letters from President Xi Jinping and President Sakellaropoulou fully reflect the deep cultural consciousness shared by China and Greece — two ancient civilizations — in preserving their own cultural traditions and promoting exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. The letters express earnest expectations for strengthening classical studies and provide important guidance for carrying forward our historical and cultural lineages, enhancing dialogue among civilizations, and advancing the development and progress of human civilization.

Participants at the conference stated that classical civilizations represent towering peaks and enduring beacons of human civilization. They emphasized the need to further invigorate the great traditions and wisdom embedded within the classical heritage, so as to guide humanity in effectively addressing various modern challenges and steering human civilization in the right direction. Strengthening classical studies will help us better understand the origins of civilizations, enhance mutual understanding, and navigate the present and the future.

More than 600 participants attended the conference, including heads of relevant departments and institutions from both China and Greece, as well as experts and scholars in the field of classical studies, leading cultural figures, youth representatives, and members of the media from around the world.