É. Apor , I. Ormos (ed.): Goldziher Memorial Conference, June 21–22, 2000, Budapest.

HAZAI, György: Opening Address

OPENING ADDRESS Ignác Goldziher was 26 years old when he became a member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. Later on, for a long period of time he was President of the Section of Language and Literature of the Academy, which has always greatly appreciated his scholarly activities. The same respect of the Academy should be expressed today, on the 150th anniversary of his birth. Please, allow me to remind you of another aspect of today's memorial conference. This scholarly meeting is one in the framework of events devoted to the celebration of the millennium of the foundation of the Hungarian State. This condition should underline the importance of Ignác Goldziher's heritage in Hungarian intellectual life and scholarship today. Finally, I would like to hint at yet another fact of the calendar, which is certainly worth mentioning. This year we celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the establishment of the Oriental Collection of the Library of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, which has always been playing an active and exemplary role in preserving tradition and paying homage to the former scholarly generations. Very distinguished guests! The academic world of Hungary and especially the representatives of Oriental studies are very grateful to you for your precious contributions to this memorial meeting. I am honoured indeed to have the privilege of welcoming you on behalf of the Section of Language and Literature of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and 1 wish you pleasant and successful work as well as an enjoyable stay in Hungary. 13