11th Istanbul International Arabic Book Fair opens with Qatar taking part

The 11th International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair commenced in Turkey on Saturday, running until August 23rd under the theme "The Story Continues." Hosted by over 300 publishing houses from 30 countries, Qatar's Ministry of Culture showcased a significant and extensive booth, emphasizing Qatar's dedication to promoting literary, poetic, and artistic endeavors, as well as strengthening its cultural presence in Arab forums.

As a distinguished guest, Syria joined alongside Algeria, Oman, Morocco, Kuwait, and representatives from international civil society organizations and dignitaries from the realms of culture, art, and politics.

In his opening remarks, Mehdi Al Jumaili, President of the International Association of Arab Book Publishers, clarified that the fair goes beyond merely exhibiting or selling books. It serves as a platform for debating pressing issues facing the Islamic nation. Dr. Yasin Aktay, a former advisor to the Turkish president, noted that the event's theme encompasses the story of a unified nation, aiming to fortify relationships among individuals across the Islamic world.

Sheikh Dr. Ali Muhyiddin Al Qaradaghi, Secretary General of the International Union of Muslim Scholars, urged continuous focus on the Palestinian issue and the provision of aid to Gaza through all feasible means. Highlighting the importance of reading in people's lives, Dr. Al Qaradaghi emphasized the need to intensify events and contests related to reading, translation, and supporting publishing houses.

Targeting a diverse audience, including students, journalists, researchers, and enthusiasts of the Arabic language, the fair offers a platform for publishers, authors, academics, translators, graphic designers, and industry representatives to converge and discuss new projects, copyright, and international cooperation. The TULIA (Turkish Literature in Arabic) project, dedicated to disseminating Turkish literature to a broader Arab audience, will display the Turkish books translated into Arabic, along with showcasing completed works and related activities.