Former Greek President Prokopis Pavlopoulos stressed the unique role that ancient civilizations like Greece and China can play in building bridges towards common paths forward, on the sidelines of the Second World Conference of Classics in Athens.
Themed "Dialogue Between Ancient and Modern: Contemporary Inspiration from Classical Wisdom," the two-day Second World Conference of Classics opened on Tuesday in Athens, Greece, bringing together experts and scholars from around the world for in-depth discussions and dialogue on issues related to classical civilizations and their relevance to modern times.
In an interview with the China Global Television Network (CGTN), Pavlopoulos drew on the philosophical traditions of both Greece and China to underscore the importance of cross-cultural dialogue.
"Greece and China, two ancient civilizations that have enriched global culture, are here together today in Athens, in this monumental setting, drawing upon the traditions of Plato and Aristotle, while also following in the footsteps of Confucius. Their purpose is to identify common paths forward, so that the entire world can rediscover its way toward the great principles of peace, democracy, justice and, above all, social justice," he said.
"Culture will always overcome barbarism. I would put it as simply as that. This has always been the greatness of culture. We only need to believe in it and understand that great civilizations, such as those of Greece and China, exist to build bridges. These bridges can connect opposite banks that, for the moment, may appear impossible to cross. We believe in this, and that is why we are here," said Pavlopoulos.
Jointly organized by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Cultural and Tourism of China, the Greek Ministry of Culture, and the Academy of Athens, the event features discussions focused on issues related to classical civilizations and promoting academic exchanges and consensus-building in global classical studies.
Since the inaugural World Conference of Classics was held in Beijing in November 2024, related departments and institutions of China and Greece have worked closely to implement the outcomes of the first conference and build networks to promote exchanges and dialogue in classical studies.
Greece, China two ancient civilization exist to build bridges: former Greek president
