📚A twofold event-tribute to the legacy of one of the greatest modern Greek authors, Nikos Kazantzakis (1883–1957), and his special relationship with China, was co-organized by the Embassy of Greece in China and the Center for Chinese and Greek Civilisations at Southwest University in Chongqing, on Wednesday, December 3.
Greek experts from the International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis (ISFNK), who travelled to China, delivered keynote speeches on the global impact of Kazantzakis' work to a large audience of scholars and students.
In his opening remarks, the Ambassador of Greece to China, Dr Evgenios Kalpyris, highlighted Kazantzakis' contribution to Greek literature, linking it to the recent UNESCO declaration of February 9 as World Greek Language Day. Professor Cui Yanqiang of Southwest University highlighted the event’s role in deepening the understanding of shared values between Chinese and Greek civilizations.
The program also included a tribute to Li Chenggui, Chinese translator of Kazantzakis, with speeches focusing on Kazantzakis' worldwide impact as well as his special relationship with China. The internationally acclaimed Greek film Kazantzakis by Yannis Smaragdis was screened after the speeches, followed by a discussion with students. The event aimed to promote mutual cultural understanding, and the Greek delegation later met with Southwest University’s President to discuss future collaborations.
