Shandong University (SDU) hosted an international forum on Confucianism at the Institut Confucius de Bretagne in France on Aug 26, bringing together 30 scholars from China, Germany, South Korea, Thailand and France. The event followed the inaugural forum held at the University of Trier in Germany in 2024.

Initiated by Zeng Zhenyu, a professor at SDU's Advanced Institute for Confucian Studies, the forum served as a platform for cross-cultural and interdisciplinary dialogue on Confucianism. This year's discussions centered on Confucian civilization and modern life.

Scholars examined topics including Confucianism and modern belief systems, economic ethics, lifestyles in modern society, and the challenges facing Confucian thought in a globalized world.

SDU Executive Vice President Wu Zhen introduced the university's work in Confucian studies and international outreach.

Blaise Thierree, French Director of the Institut Confucius de Bretagne, noted that the study of Confucianism across different cultural contexts requires ongoing translation, interpretation, comparison and rediscovery. He expressed hope that the forum would foster diverse academic perspectives and strengthen long-term cooperation between Chinese and European scholars.

Other scholars explored how Confucian ideas can adapt to modern and post-modern social changes, while maintaining cultural diversity and highlighting shared human values. They also stressed the importance of equal academic dialogue as a key pathway for the global advancement of Confucian studies.

The opening ceremony also featured the donation of over 20 academic books to the institute. The forum was scheduled to include keynote presentations and two round-table discussions on Confucianism and its contemporary relevance.