CASS President Gao Xiang (right) confers a collection certificate upon Chairman of the ALF Panagiotis C. Laskaridis. Photo: Zhu Gaolei/CSSN

On Nov. 7, during the 1st World Conference of Classics, the Aikaterini Laskaridis Foundation (ALF) in Greece presented the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) with two ancient research works on classics—Nicomachean Ethics and Politics—both authored by Aristotle and printed in the 17th century. The presentation ceremony was attended by CASS President Gao Xiang, Chairman of the ALF Panagiotis C. Laskaridis, CASS Vice President Wang Changlin, and Secretary-General of CASS Zhao Zhimin.

In his speech at the ceremony, Gao extended his gratitude to the ALF’s consistent support of CASS. He noted that the gift of these two precious classical works represents a gesture of active response to the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, as well as significant support for the inaugural World Conference of Classics. The gesture also exemplifies the exchange and mutual learning between the Chinese and Greek civilizations, serving as a testament to the growing friendship and connection between the two peoples. Gao expressed his hope that the ALF and Chairman Laskaridis would continue to provide support for historical and cultural exchanges between China and Greece, thereby making positive contributions to the advancement of human civilization.

“Only by delving deep into history and culture can we obtain the wisdom for a better future,” Gao said. “CASS scholars have always valued ancient documents and treasured time-honored, profound history and culture. We will enshrine and utilize the precious books presented by the ALF and fully tap their academic potential to contribute to the inheritance and development of classics as well as to the promotion of classical civilizations.”

Laskaridis offered a brief introduction to the two ancient documents. He emphasized that Greece and China, as ancient civilizations, share many cultural affinities. The establishment of the Chinese School of Classical Studies at Athens (CSCSA) by CASS has injected new vitality into classical studies worldwide. The ALF will aid in the construction of the CSCSA, remaining committed to facilitating cultural exchanges between Greece and China to help deepen bilateral ties.

Printed in 1660, the two precious books presented by the ALF were originally part of the personal collection of Konstantin Muller, a professor from the University of Rinteln in Germany. These works hold significant academic value for studying the formation of Western political, ethical and philosophical thought.