President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan participated in the opening ceremony of the bust of the renowned medieval philosopher and scientist, Abu Nasr Al-Farabi, at the Beijing Language and Culture University. The event, which was attended by esteemed guests, including Deputy Minister of Education of the People's Republic of China Wang Guangyan, University Rector Duan Peng, and Director of the State Art Museum of China, Wu Weishan, celebrated Al-Farabi's enduring contributions to human knowledge and civilization.
In his address, President Tokayev underscored Al-Farabi's significant role in the advancement of world civilization and the importance of his legacy. Al-Farabi, born and raised in Kazakhstan, was a versatile scholar who delved into diverse fields such as mathematics, natural science, astronomy, philology, and various other branches of science. The President emphasized the philosopher's focus on the idea of justice, the formation of merciful societies, and harmonious states, as well as his defense of moral and spiritual values. Al-Farabi's exploration of art forms, including music and calligraphy, added to the depth of his intellectual contributions.
President Tokayev went on to highlight Al-Farabi's status as the "Second Teacher," a title bestowed upon him by contemporaries in recognition of his encyclopedic knowledge, second only to Aristotle. The resident pointed out that Al-Farabi's works remain relevant and valuable, forming a treasured part of global scientific thought.
"The 1150th anniversary of Al-Farabi, celebrated in 2020, was included in the UNESCO global list of observances. International scientific symposiums and conferences were organized, monographs and collections were published, and documentary films were made," President Tokayev stated. "All of this has made it possible to better understand the works of Al-Farabi and opened up opportunities for the popularization of his rich heritage."
President Tokayev, who had studied at the Beijing Language and Culture University, expressed his deep honor at the inauguration of the Al-Farabi bust. He expressed his confidence that the legacy of the great thinker would be thoroughly studied at the university, strengthening cultural ties between Kazakhstan and China. The President also conveyed his gratitude to the Government of China, Beijing Language and Culture University, the National Art Museum of China, and the renowned sculptor Wu Weishan for their support in realizing this initiative.
During the event, President Tokayev engaged in a warm conversation with Professor Liu Shiqin, who had taught him during his internship at the Beijing Linguistic Institute in 1983-1984.
"I am very pleased, after 40 years, to once again be within the walls of my university and meet you in good health," President Tokayev shared with Professor Liu Shiqin. "I would like to especially note your hard work, perseverance, and good spirits. The knowledge you shared with your students is priceless."
President Tokayev also had the opportunity to view archival documents related to his studies at the university and, at the conclusion of the event, presented a portrait of Abu Nasr Al-Farabi to the Beijing Language and Culture University. He also met with Kazakh students studying at the institution.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)