An inauguration ceremony of the Chinese School of Classical Studies, the first research institute of classical civilizations in Greece by an Asian country, was held Thursday in Athens, capital of Greece.
The grand inauguration, which brought together two of the world's oldest civilizations, welcomed an array of high-profile attendees, including Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chinese National People’s Congress (NPC), who is visiting Greece from Wednesday to Saturday, and Lina Mendoni, Greek Minister of Culture.
The inauguration of the Chinese School of Classical Studies also showcased many cultural objects from China, from intricate Chinese artifacts to books on science and history, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage on what the countries bring to this collaborative initiative.
Representatives from both Greek and Chinese cultural organizations highlighted how this school is not just about Greece and China, but a global opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual learning.
"The institute will fully showcase the distinctive characteristics of Chinese civilization to the world, foster exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese civilization and the civilizations of other countries, and play an active role in advancing the development and inheritance of human civilizations, as well as in promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humanity," said Gao Xiang, president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and also director of the Chinese Academy of History.
To help bring this vision to life, the Greek government has committed to ensuring the school's smooth operation, highlighting the importance of this partnership.
"It is significant there is a guarantee provided by the support offered to the Chinese School of Classical Studies by its parent organization, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. That's why, the Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic will support and assist the School in its inception," said Lina Mendoni, Greek Minister of Culture.
She said, "The presence today here in Athens of the President (Chairman) of the National People's Congress, Mr. Zhao Leji is proof of the great importance China places on the School of Classical Studies, serving as an exceptionally good omen for its future."
Situated in the heart of Athens, the school offers a unique platform for exploring the connections between two of the world's most influential ancient cultures.
With courses, workshops, and events on topics like Confucianism, Daoism, Greek philosophy, and mythology, it invites everyone from scholars to curious learners to explore these rich traditions.
Guests at the inauguration praised the effort, but noted that greater investment could take this collaboration even further.
"The Chinese have embraced cultural expansion by uniting two ancient civilizations, Chinese and Greek. We must do more to match their efforts, and invest further to deepen our ties across all sectors," said Panos Laskaridis, head of Chinese Language School in Piraeus.
With its doors now open, the school marks another step in Athens' growing cultural and economic ties with China. It aims to celebrate ancient wisdom while inspiring even stronger connections for the future.
Chinese School of Classical Studies inaugurated in Athens
