"… To Landon Clay and his wife Lavinia Clay, to the Clay family, to the members of the Riemann family, and to all of the mathematicians who came to this historic occasion.
"At a Paris conference 23 years ago, the Clay Mathematics Institute announced awards for anyone that could solve the seven most famous problems in the world. Even though mathematicians are more excited about mathematics than fame and fortune…
"That doesn't mean it is not important.
"It's a list of the great unsolved problems of the 20th century. It creates enthusiasm for mathematics. It attracts children and students to be interested in the ever-evolving mathematics and math-related problems."
"It didn't matter whether they were interested in mathematics or the million-dollar prize money."
The Institut de France.
The large auditorium was packed with people.
