Rector participated in the unveiling of the bust of Al-Farabi in Beijing

Chairman of the Board - Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Zhanseit Tuimebayev took part in the opening ceremony of the bust of medieval philosopher, scientist Abu Nasr Al-Farabi in Beijing University of Language and Culture.

The bust dedicated to the scientist was unveiled by the Head of State Kasym-Jomart Tokayev, who paid an official visit to the People's Republic of China.

The opening ceremony was also attended by Vice Minister of Education Wang Guangyan, Secretary of the University Party Committee Nie Haidong, Rector of Duan Peng University, University Professor Liu Shiqin, as well as Director of the State Art Museum of China and author of the bust Wu Weishan.

In his speech, the head of state dwelt on Al-Farabi's contribution to the intellectual rise of world civilization.

"A great thinker of the East, who made a significant contribution to the development of the entire world civilization, Al-Farabi was born and grew up in the territory of Kazakhstan. He traveled many countries in search of knowledge, played an outstanding role in the formation of mathematics, natural science, astronomy, philology, carried out research in other branches of science. His contribution to the development of mankind is immeasurable. In his philosophical works, Al-Farabi emphasized the idea of Justice. He emphasized the formation of a merciful society and harmonious state, defended moral and spiritual values. The scientist studied such arts as music and calligraphy," the President said.

In addition, the head of state emphasized that the works of the scientist are always relevant and do not lose their value.

"His works are a treasure that has entered the golden fund of world scientific thought. The 1150th anniversary of Al-Farabi, which was celebrated in 2020, was included in the global list of UNESCO anniversaries. International scientific symposiums and conferences were organized. Monographs and collections were published. Documentary films were made. All this allowed to comprehend Al-Farabi's works more deeply and opened opportunities for popularization of his rich heritage. Now a number of scientific works dedicated to the philosopher will be available to Chinese scholars and young people. I am glad that first of all teachers and students of Beijing University of Language and Culture will be able to familiarize themselves with these valuable materials. I, too, once studied at this institution exactly forty years ago. Therefore, today it is a great honor for me to open the bust of Abu Nasr al-Farabi," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Press-service of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University