Fields Medal-winning mathematician Andrei Okunkov recently gave an exclusive interview to CMG in Beijing. He has a deep interest in everything from calligraphy to tea culture. He explores the connection between Eastern thought and mathematical principles. As a foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a Nobel Prize winner, he believes that “the future of mathematics lies in China.”
In November 2023, Okunkov was elected a foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. He has shown a deep interest in traditional Chinese culture. From imitating calligraphy to learning the tea ceremony, he has tried to explore the deep connection between Eastern thought and mathematical principles through these traditional cultural experiences.
In the interview, he said, “I love calligraphy. These ancient traditions create a fascinating analogy with China’s current position in mathematics. China is undoubtedly the future of mathematics. There are many young people here who are dedicated and skilled in the art and science of mathematics. They are pursuing this research with incredible depth. This is partly because of China’s long mathematical tradition, but China also represents the future. China’s achievements in science and technology, such as automobiles, batteries, mobile phones, and high-speed rail, are very remarkable, and the same is true for mathematics. The number of young people in China who study mathematics with such dedication and passion is truly extraordinary.”
He believes that mathematics is by far the most precise and logically the only language that is capable of accurately describing certain phenomena and problems. It is this precision that mathematics requires. It is this precision that helps us deal with our everyday problems more closely. Modern technology relies heavily on this high level of precision. Without this sophisticated understanding of the world, all that we have today—from amazing electronic devices to high-speed trains—would not have been possible.
In the interview, he also said, “I am a foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Last year, I heard General Secretary Xi Jinping’s speech at the Great Hall of the People. In the speech, he emphasized that creativity is the first driving force in development. It is really inspiring! I want to say that the Chinese government advocates building a learning society, supports scientific and technological innovation, and supports the development of basic sciences such as mathematics. This is a very commendable initiative. The foundation of modern prosperity undoubtedly lies in science and technology. If the government prioritizes this, I have nothing but respect for it. It is really wonderful.
Source: Translation: Lili, China Media Group.