UNESCO honors historical Chinese mathematician Liu Hui

UNESCO celebrated the historical Chinese mathematician Liu Hui in Paris, France on Tuesday, at an event marking the anniversary of his birth.

The gathering, which was organized by the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO and the China Association for Science and Technology, or CAST, was held at UNESCO's Paris headquarters and showcased the achievements of the mathematician while also promoting cultural exchange between global civilizations.

Liu Hui, who lived between 225 and 295 AD, is regarded as one of the key figures in classical Chinese mathematics. His work influenced many later mathematicians and played an important role in both Chinese and global mathematical history. His commentary, the Nine Chapters on Mathematical Art, was especially influential.

The event was moderated by Ruan Cao, director general of CAST.

Lidia Arthur Brito, UNESCO's assistant director-general for natural sciences, was the first speaker.

She said: "This celebration is a tribute to his legacy and a reminder of the crucial role mathematics plays in shaping our future."

Brito also noted: "Mathematics helps us understand the universe. It crosses borders and cultures, offering a shared language to tackle challenges like artificial intelligence, climate change, and sustainable development."

She also highlighted UNESCO's efforts, saying: "UNESCO has built a network of regional centers and UNESCO chairs focused on mathematics, especially in the Global South. The release of UNESCO's Mathematics for Action toolkit also shows the continued relevance of this ancient discipline."

Yang Xinyu, China's ambassador to UNESCO, remarked: "Liu Hui's work not only enriched Chinese mathematics but also had a global impact, inspiring the development of world mathematics."

She added that, in 2021, the International Astronomical Union named a lunar feature Liu Hui.

"Now, when we look at the moon, we can remember his groundbreaking work and scientific spirit," she said.

In November 2023, during UNESCO's 42nd General Conference, the proposal to celebrate the 1,800th anniversary of Liu Hui's birth was approved. It was the first time China successfully applied for such a commemoration at UNESCO.

Other speakers at the event included Sang Mee Back, South Korea's ambassador to UNESCO, and Elman Abdullayev, Azerbaijan's ambassador to UNESCO.

Zou Dahai, a research professor from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, sent a message through a representative, saying: "Commemorating Liu Hui shows the importance of learning and cultural exchange between civilizations."

The last speaker, He Junke, executive president of the China Association for Science and Technology, closed the ceremony by saying: "This gathering pays tribute to the extraordinary contributions of Liu Hui. We are deeply grateful for UNESCO's support and Azerbaijan's assistance. Liu Hui's mathematical journey was long, and his work, particularly the Nine Chapters, contributed to fields like urban planning. Even with today's rapid advancements, mathematics remains vital in addressing modern challenges."

After the ceremony, attendees discussed Liu Hui's contributions and their lasting influence on mathematics.

According to CAST, a themed exhibition showcasing Liu Hui's mathematical achievements and an international symposium on his academic thought will also take place in Paris this week.