Doha: The broad global participation in the 35th Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) demonstrates its standing as one of the preeminent cultural exhibitions in the region and the world, the Arab Publishers Association said in a statement Sunday.

According to Qatar News Agency, the statement noted that the fair features outstanding participation of over 520 publishing houses from 37 nations worldwide, encompassing hundreds of thousands of themes in the literary, scientific, cultural, and educational domains, alongside children's books. This participation stands as a testament to the fair's status as a global cultural hub that assembles thought and innovation.

The inauguration of This is Qatar as the guest of honor underscores a practical step that manifests the cultural and civilizational identity of the State of Qatar. The statement affirmed that this move highlights the prolific cultural scene and the diversity embraced by the nation.

Recalling the record turnout from the public, officially, culturally, and in terms of media, the association applauded the cultural program held alongside the fair. This program largely intends to boost the culture of reading and elevate the notion of dialogue, innovation, and cultural exchange to new heights.

The statement added that this cultural demonstration featured a series of events, including thoughtful and cultural panel discussions, interviews with writers and thought leaders, book signings, and literary and poetry evenings. Additionally, the fair included children and youth workshops, artistic and cultural shows, and sessions on publishing and the book industry.

The statement highlighted several events and initiatives offered by the fair to its visitors, such as the Reading Guide service. This service includes reading consultations and one-on-one knowledge sessions aimed at overcoming reading difficulties across different age groups. The initiative strives to deepen the value of reading in society and draw reading amateurs from children, young people, and adults. This initiative is available throughout all days of the event to facilitate visitors' access to a plethora of booths.

The initiative also assists new readers in taking their first steps toward the world of books according to their preferences, based on the wide diversity of scientific, social, religious, and historical genres.

Syria's participation in this fair through 175 diverse titles suggests the cultural presence of the country and its contribution to enriching the intellectual and knowledge scene. This involvement showcases a variety of releases that demonstrate Syrian cultural and literary production.

Noteworthy, this fair is the largest in its history, containing almost 910 booths that showcase over 1.85 million books, alongside over 231,000 titles in a range of knowledge fields.