Abu dhabi: The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair commenced at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, featuring participation from 95 countries, including Qatar, which is represented by its Ministry of Culture.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Ministry of Culture is showcasing a collection of publications that highlight the Qatari cultural profile. This participation serves as a crucial platform for presenting Qatari cultural achievements and modern publications, while exploring new avenues for collaboration with Gulf and Arab cultural institutions. Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, Director of the Libraries Department and Director of the Doha International Book Fair, emphasized this point.
Al Buainain noted that Qatar's involvement in the fair is part of a broader strategy of participating in major Arab and international cultural exhibitions. The goal is to promote Qatari cultural heritage and initiatives, as well as to engage with cultural institutions and stakeholders in the book and publishing industry. This participation also aims to strengthen cultural connections between Qatar and various cultural enterprises, publishing houses, and other participants in the fair.
He further stated that such events are instrumental in supporting the book and publishing industry, as well as in encouraging Qatari writers and innovators to reach a global audience. International book fairs, Al Buainain highlighted, are vital for fostering communication among publishers, authors, and readers, while offering opportunities to explore diverse literary and intellectual experiences.
Al Buainain described the event as a leading cultural platform that unites prominent writers, publishers, and intellectuals, facilitating dialogue and the exchange of ideas. The fair's cultural program includes panel discussions, lectures, and workshops that enrich the cultural scene and celebrate the book and publishing industry.
Moreover, Al Buainain reiterated the Ministry's commitment to maintaining its presence at international cultural events to enhance cultural ties with other nations and to share expertise. This is part of Qatar's broader effort to project its cultural products globally as part of its civilizational and humanitarian presence.
This year's edition of the fair features Balkan Culture as its Guest of Honour, in partnership with the Republic of North Macedonia, and celebrates Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi as its "Focus Personality," alongside Miguel de Cervantes' "Don Quixote" as its "Book of the World."