The Ministry of Culture is participating in the 66th Beirut Arab International Book Fair, which will continue until May 25.
A number of local, Arab, and international publishing houses are participating.
During the opening of the fair, Lebanese Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam emphasized that this occasion reflects Beirut's vibrant spirit as a capital of culture and creativity.
He highlighted the importance of books as a bridge between hearts and minds, and a message that affirms that the world is greater than narrow borders.
He stressed that Beirut has not and will not tire of carrying the banner of culture despite all its wounds, and will remain a capital for elevating the word and a starting point for writing and publishing.
He considered sustainable human development to be part of reform in his country, and that reform has institutional dimensions, promoting the rule of law and institutions, and extending state control.
For her part, President of the Arab Cultural Club (the exhibition organizer), Salwa Siniora Baassiri, emphasized in her opening remarks that culture holds a significant place because it is a human act and a way of life.
She highlighted the importance of culture in the context of the advancement of the human mind, noting that the exhibition is an annual event aimed at highlighting the importance of culture.
For his part, representative of the Qatari Ministry of Culture Ahmed Abdullah Al Emadi, told Qatar News Agency correspondent in Beirut that the Qatari Ministry of Culture's participation in the exhibition is within the framework of strengthening cultural and intellectual communication with the aim of expanding cooperation in the cultural field and showcasing its intellectual and literary output.
He emphasized the depth of cultural cooperation between Lebanon and the State of Qatar to promote culture and knowledge.
In similar statements to a QNA correspondent, Dr. Akram Hamdan, the fair's media official, said that 123 Arab and foreign publishing houses, including those from Qatar, are participating in this edition.
He pointed to the Arab Cultural Club's insistence on organizing the exhibition, especially after the recent Israeli aggression on Lebanon, to affirm the importance of science and culture among the Lebanese.
He noted that this session would include seminars and book signings, in addition to artistic programs, recreational activities for children, and a photo exhibition. (
