Global Greek and Plato Study Groups Established in Chongqing

CHONGQING, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Chongqing has taken a significant step in enhancing cultural exchange by launching two new global academic alliances aimed at studying contemporary Greece and Platonic philosophies. This initiative signifies a landmark in fostering connections between Chinese and Greek civilizations.

The "Global Contemporary Greek Studies Community" and the "Global Platonic Studies Community" were inaugurated at the opening of the Second Global Forum on Mutual Learning among Civilizations held at Southwest University. This event also marked the establishment of an area studies institute and a classical studies institute under the Center of Chinese and Greek Ancient Civilizations, known as KELKIP.

The purpose of these platforms is to aggregate global scholarly efforts to inspire dialogues that connect ancient wisdom with the challenges of the modern world. With a particular emphasis on the insights from Global South countries, scholars are encouraged to work together in reinterpreting classical thoughts to tackle contemporary global issues.

Evgenios Kalpyris, the Ambassador of Greece to China, highlighted the significance of dialogue in both Greek thought and Confucian philosophy. He noted that this approach serves as a means of teaching and articulating divergent opinions in the quest for common ground, asserting that age-old wisdom holds vital lessons for navigating today's crises.

Cui Yanqiang, the Chinese director of KELKIP, emphasized that the newly formed institutes reinforce the center's dual focus: to shed light on contemporary issues through classical insights while also reexamining antiquity through modern lenses.

Chloe Balla, chairperson of the Greek KELKIP Steering Committee, expressed her admiration for the unique social integration of Chinese philosophy. She remarked that ancient Chinese thought is not merely an academic pursuit but rather an intrinsic part of Chinese society, making Confucius a reference point for many.

The forum, themed "Ancient Wisdom for the Global South," features parallel discussions focused on topics such as Plato studies, modern Greek research, and the relationships between China and Europe, all examined from civilizational angles. The event has attracted over 60 scholars from more than 20 countries, signaling a robust international interest.