The 1964 Beijing Science Symposium was the first large-scale international scientific event hosted by New China for scientists from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania, marking a milestone in the history of China's science and technology (S&T) diplomacy. This paper systematically reviews the historical background, preparatory process, organization, and main content of the Symposium, and provides an in-depth analysis of its multidimensional significance in breaking through diplomatic blockades, pioneering South-South S&T cooperation, showcasing independent innovation achievements, and stimulating the domestic scientific community. On this basis, the paper distills the historical lessons of the Beijing Science Symposium for contemporary China's pursuit of S&T self-reliance, deepening of Belt and Road S&T cooperation, building of a community with a shared future for mankind, and cultivation of S&T diplomacy talents, while offering perspectives on the future role of the China Association for Science and Technology in international S&T exchanges and cooperation.
Lyu et al. (Mon,) studied this question.