US Publishers Keen To Attend Tehran Int’l Book Fair: Deputy Min.

Tehran, April 11, IRNA – A number of the US Publishers have voiced their readiness to take part in the 25th Tehran International Book Fair slated for May 2-12, said deputy culture and Islamic guidance minister for cultural affairs. Asked about the presence of the American and European publishers in the upcoming event, Bahman Dorri said that despite the fact that the organizers of book fair in the UK created obstacles for the Iranian publishers, the ministry does not believe in a reciprocal move; rather it believes in developing cultural interaction with all the countries. Dorri said that cultural interaction with other countries is of high significance, adding that publishers from the US have announced their readiness to attend the book fair. They say they do not believe in the sanctions and are ready for cultural interaction. Asked whether the Egyptian and Tunisian publishers will take part in the event, he said that their governments do not allow them to visit Iran. 'Efforts are underway to pave the way for their presence through other channels. Book fair is a cultural event which involves elites and publishers.' The 25th Tehran International Book Fair will be held in Tehran, Imam Khomeini Mosalla (grand prayers ground) from May 2-12./end