Ambassadors to QNA: Doha International Book Fair Important Milestone in Arab Culture

 

 

Doha, June 20 (QNA) - A number of Their Excellencies ambassadors of Arab countries praised the organization and events of the 32nd edition of the Doha International Book Fair, held this year under the theme "With Reading We Rise" at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC).

In exclusive statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA) during their visit to the Book Fair on Monday evening, Their Excellencies affirmed that the fair has become an important landmark on the cultural map for its embrace of diverse cultures, thus adding to the State of Qatar's record in organizing major events.

HH Ambassador of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Qatar Prince Mansour bin Khalid bin Farhan Al Saud said that the current edition of the Doha Book Fair is very distinguished and emphasizes its importance, the available facilities, and the numerous participations from different countries worldwide. He commended the efforts of the Ministry of Culture in organizing and ensuring the success of the fair, and appreciated at the same time the success of the Saudi pavilion, the guest of honor of this year's edition.

For his part, HE Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to Qatar Zaid Mufleh Al Lawzi said in a statement to QNA that the Doha Book Fair is one of the important fairs, and each edition is distinguished from the previous one with renewed content and wider participation. He pointed out that the fair provides an opportunity for publishers to showcase their new releases and for countries to introduce their cultural heritage. He added that Jordan's participation this year is significant, with 52 publishers, marking the largest participation of Jordanian publishers at the fair.

The Jordanian Ambassador underlined that Jordan's interest to participate the Doha Book Fair comes within the framework of enhancing continuous cultural cooperation between the two countries, especially as Qatar will be the guest of honor at the Amman International Book Fair in September.

HE Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen to Qatar Rajeh Hussein Farhan Badi said in a similar statement to QNA that Doha International Book Fair has brought books back to the heart and mind in light of the information revolution and social media platforms, adding that therefore, there is a constant yearning and desire to visit and explore the accompanying activities and events in the fair. He expressed happiness with Yemen's participation after a 20-year absence, as the Yemeni General Book Authority is participating in this year edition, which is considered the best and adds to Qatar's rich record in organizing major international events, stressing that Qatar has a lot to offer to Arab culture.

He added that the Doha Book Fair, with its elegant and dazzling organization, has proven that books are still present in the heart despite the tremendous technological revolution.

In turn, HE Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Qatar Amr Kamal El-Din El Sherbini told QNA that the Doha Book Fair is an honorable platform that confirms Qatar's success in hosting cultural events and international exhibitions. He emphasized Egypt's keenness to be present and culturally engaged in the fair, as HE Egyptian Minister of Culture Dr. Nevine El Kelany attended the opening ceremony. During her visit, she met with HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani and HE Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Qatar Museums Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani, during the meeting, they agreed to enhance cultural cooperation between the two countries in various cultural fields, whether related to arts, art exhibits, or joint events.

He pointed out that Egypt's participation is the largest in this fair, with 54 book publishers, which affirms the depth of cultural relations between Egypt and Qatar and the interest in Egypt's cultural presence and participation in the fair.

The 32nd edition of the Doha International Book Fair will continue until Wednesday at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, with the participation of over 500 publishers from 37 countries. (QNA)