A cultural event featuring dialogues between Eastern and Western philosophers, transcending time and space, took place at the Nea Smyrni Municipal Museum in Athens before the opening of the second World Conference of Classics on June 8.

A notable moment was the presentation of a special book to Manolis Korres, a member of the Academy of Athens, fulfilling a promise made at the first World Conference of Classics in 2024. The book, on Greek-Roman architecture and published in a Chinese edition by Shandong Friendship Publishing House, represents a cross-continental commitment.

Manolis Korres (left), a renowned Greek academician, displays the Chinese edition of his book published by Shandong Friendship Publishing House. [Photo/Shandian News]

The event also introduced a China?Greece audio?visual culture communication plan, aimed at facilitating the co?production and exchange of documentaries and programs. An immersive AI interactive zone, a 3D Jixia Academy (located in Linzi in present-day Zibo) experience, and an exhibition on classical thinkers created a "visible, audible, and interactive" space for dialogue.

Through exhibitions, digital storytelling, and academic exchanges, the event bridged two great civilizations, reflecting the conference theme: "ancient wisdom for modern challenges".

A guest learns about Confucian culture through a VR device. [Photo/Shandian News]

The event was guided by China's State Council Information Office and the Chinese Embassy in Greece, and co?organized by Jiangsu and Shandong provincial information offices, among others. Over 150 Chinese and Greek guests attended the ceremony.