Sharjah International Book Fair wins Market Focus Achievement Award at London Book Fair

SHARJAH, 16th April, 2015 (WAM) -- The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), a subsidiary of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), has won the Market Focus Achievement Award as part of the London Book Fair International Excellence Awards in recognition of the role it played in promoting culture, publishing and market focus. SIBF was pronounced the winner at the Excellence Awards Ceremony, which took place at the Conference Centre at Olympia on the side-lines of the 44th edition of London Book Fair. The SIBF was the only Arab organisation shortlisted for the Excellence Award in any category along with China's Institutions Group, and Dorling Kindersley in China. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, received the award in the presence of Jacks Thomas, Director of the London Book Fair and a large gathering of professionals and stakeholders in the sectors of culture, publishing and media from all over the world. Al Ameri said, " We are extremely proud and pleased with this achievement for the UAE and the Emirate of Sharjah. I extend my thanks and appreciation to H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who made us feel proud and recognised before the world. What the Sharjah International Book Fair has achieved today is the realisation of the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah who believes that progress and development can be achieved through culture and science. We receive this prestigious international achievement award thanks to Sheikh Sultan's sound guidance and directives as well as to all those who worked with dedication over the past three decades. As we receive this award today, we still look forward to achieving more." Jacks Thomas, Director of the London Book Fair said, "In the last few years, we have seen the rise and rise of international publishing. As global ties have grown stronger, it is a pleasure to see these celebrated at The London Book Fair's International Excellence Awards. Each one of our winners brings something special to the industry. And we are proud to give them the recognition they deserve." Richard Mollet, Chief Executive of the Publishers Association (UK), said, "It is great to see publishing innovation and excellence receive such international recognition. The sheer spread of countries whose publishing industries are recognised tonight demonstrates the continuing global relevance of our industry in the digital age. Many congratulations to all the winners this evening." Meanwhile, the Sharjah Book Authority will conclude its participation today (Thursday) in the conference which took place under the theme, Making Words Go Further. Most major publishing organisations and institutions were there, with over 2100 publishers and exhibitors from all over the world taking part. The SBA stand received high profile visitors and stakeholders from all aspects of the publishing industry. – Emirates News Agency, WAM – http://www.wam.ae/en/news/emirates/1395279326706.html