Damascus: The Damascus International Book Fair began today in Damascus, themed "a history we write...a history we read." The event was inaugurated by HE President of the Syrian Arab Republic Ahmed Al Sharaa, alongside HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani from Qatar, and HE Minister of Culture of Syria Mohammed Yassin Saleh. The opening ceremony was also attended by Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali, HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Syria Khalifa bin Abdullah Al Mahmoud, among other ministers and ambassadors.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Ministry of Culture is participating in the book fair, which runs until February 16, as part of its efforts to foster cultural and intellectual communication, as well as to promote its electronic library. Director of the Libraries Department at the Ministry of Culture and Director of the Doha International Book Fair Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain expressed the Ministry's commitment to showcasing its intellectual contributions. He emphasized that Qatar's selection as this year's guest of honor underscores the strong cultural relationship between Qatar and Syria.
Al Buainain highlighted the diverse range of publications the Ministry of Culture is presenting at the fair, spanning genres such as novels, law, social sciences, and children's books. The Ministry aims to share its initiatives to promote reading, featuring a dedicated pavilion for Qatari books. A special book highlighting the sacrifices of the Syrian people through the perspectives of the country's intellectuals has been prepared for this occasion.
The pavilion promises to deliver a comprehensive cultural experience, featuring arts, traditional crafts, and a photography exhibition of Qatar's landmarks and environment. Additionally, the Ministry has planned seminars, poetry events, and activities specifically designed for children.
The current edition of the Damascus International Book Fair hosts over 500 publishing houses from 35 countries, offering more than 650 cultural events throughout its duration.