Doha: Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, Director of the Libraries Department at Qatar's Ministry of Culture and Director of the Doha International Book Fair, announced that the 35th edition of the fair has been the largest since the event's inception in 1972. He emphasized the fair's role as a leading cultural platform that bolsters the publishing industry, encourages reading, and supports local book production in Qatar.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Buainain highlighted the cultural and national importance of selecting the "This is Qatar" project as the guest of honor. The initiative aims to present a comprehensive image of Qatar, showcasing the country's commitment to culture, reading, and local publishing, as evident through the activities and programs of the Doha International Book Fair.
The current edition's cultural program is notably diverse, featuring over 65 literary and cultural seminars on the main stage, alongside cultural salon events and other activities. These events align with the themes of the "This is Qatar" project, addressing a variety of cultural, intellectual, and social issues.
Al Buainain noted that the program includes participation from a distinguished group of academics, intellectuals, and specialists from various fields, reflecting Qatari society's diversity and the richness of the cultural movement at the exhibition. The seminars aim to connect intellectual and cultural elements with the civilizational message conveyed by the project.
In a response to Qatar News Agency regarding the fair's success in localizing the book industry, Al Buainain pointed out the steady annual increase in participating publishing houses and the growing number of Arab and international publishers joining the exhibition for the first time. This year's fair also introduced new Qatari publishing houses, illustrating a rising local interest in publishing and intellectual production.
Al Buainain expressed satisfaction with the inclusion of new Qatari publishing houses, underscoring the ongoing significance of printed books despite the surge in electronic publishing. He affirmed that readers continue to hold a strong attachment to printed works in the current cultural landscape.
Regarding support for publishers, Al Buainain emphasized that the Ministry of Culture and the fair's administration provide logistical and organizational support for Arab and international publishers. This includes free visa facilitation and customs clearance for participating publications, simplifying participation and enhancing publishers' presence at the fair.