Syria Joins Amman International Book Fair as Guest of Honor

Syria is participating as the guest of honor at the 25th Amman International Book Fair, a move that highlights the deep cultural and emotional ties between Syria and Jordan. This participation features a delegation of 26 Syrian publishing houses, which are showcasing a wide range of intellectual and literary publications. Alongside the book exhibits, a vibrant program is underway, including intellectual seminars, poetry evenings, and live performances that showcase Syria’s tangible and intangible heritage.

Syrian Minister of Culture, Mohammad Yassin Saleh, emphasized that the Syrian participation in the fair serves as a cultural event aimed at strengthening the connection between Syrian creators and their audience across the Arab world. He noted that the ministry is dedicated to providing opportunities for Syrian youth to play an active role in this significant cultural forum.

Participating Syrian publishers highlighted the importance of this year’s edition of the fair. Marwan Al-Adwan, representing the Mamdouh Adwan Publishing and Distribution House, noted the significant alignment in interests between Syrian and Jordanian readers. He explained that being chosen as the guest of honor adds a special character to the Syrian presence this year. Fadia Abdel Khaleq, a representative for Rasan and Alaa El-Din publishing houses, added that the fair serves as a vital gateway, allowing Syrian publishers to reach new audiences and exchange ideas with authors and readers from various cultural backgrounds, which contributes to the development of cultural work.

The fair’s activities commenced last Thursday and are scheduled to continue until October 3. The Syrian Ministry of Culture pavilion at the event offers a comprehensive overview of Syrian cultural identity. The showcase extends beyond history and archaeology to include traditional arts, crafts, customs, and traditions, highlighting the durability of Syrian culture as a living, evolving entity capable of engaging with the broader Arab cultural landscape.

This participation is part of ongoing efforts to bolster the cultural presence of Syrian literature within the Arab arena and to expand communication channels with publishers and readers. These efforts reflect the historical and civilizational reach of Syrian culture and its enduring influence.

Source: Syria Focus Arabic