Iranian culture minister laments decline in book reading rate in Islamic countries

TEHRAN,Dec.15 (MNA) -- Iranian Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance lamented over the decline in the book-reading rate among the Islamic countries. Hosseini who was on a two-day visit to the ongoing 22nd Doha International Book Fair spoke to a group of scholars and cultural officials, criticizing the Muslim nations for low per capita book-reading rate. He said that in the Islamic countries, cultural activity is a serious thing, adding that we should not ignore this significant fact and all experts are asked to help boost cultural activities in the Islamic countries. He added that if Islamic culture is presented in an appropriate way, it will not only encourage youths but also the entire world “since Islamic culture is established through dialogue, it is able to seep into the heart of every individual. “If we get to know Islamic culture well and believe in it, it will surely help to overcome the obstacles in the world of Islam,” he said. He also announced that Iran is ready to cooperate in any cultural project to promote Islamic Awakening. Hosseini also met with Qatari Minister of Awqaf (Religious Endowments & Islamic Affairs) Ghaith bin Mubarak al Kuwari and proposed holding a Quran exhibition in Qatar. “Iran is ready to provide the organizers with all its information and experience on Quranic arts, films and research,” he added. He also invited Al Kuwari to visit Iran and the religion schools and research centers as well as the seminaries and libraries of Qom. Iran is participating actively this year as the guest of honor with several conferences. Iranian publishers are participating in the 10-day book fair which opened December 12 at the Doha Exhibitions Center.