New Delhi, January 10 (QNA) - HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani said that the State of Qatar's participation in the New Delhi World Book Fair as guest of honor reflects the role of culture and knowledge as bridges for human communication as well as the State of Qatar and the Republic of India's deep ties.

This came during His Excellency's participation in the opening of the New Delhi World Book Fair, in the presence of HE Minister of Education of the Republic of India, Dharmendra Pradhan; HE Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Spain, Ernest Urtasun; HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of India, Mohammed Hassan Al Jabir; and HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Dr. Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali, along with a lineup of officials, diplomats, and intellectuals.

HE the Minister of Culture said that the State of Qatar takes pride in being a guest of honor in this international cultural event that celebrates books as holders of collective memory, fundamental tools for creating awareness, and channels for dialogue and rapprochement among cultures.

He expressed his thanks and appreciation for the Indian side's warm reception and support for Qatar's participation.

His Excellency added that this participation reflects the strength of bilateral relations that are based on mutual respect and a shared belief in the role of culture and knowledge in interconnecting peoples, noting that investing in knowledge is a fundamental part of advancing societies and consolidating development and national security.

HE Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani said that the New Delhi World Book Fair embodies books' pivotal role in shaping human awareness and building civilizations, something that aligns with the State of Qatar's vision of supporting reading and the publishing industry, in addition to strengthening the presence of culture in sustainable development.

For his part, HE the Minister of Education of the Republic of India highlighted the State of Qatar's participation as a guest of honor and said that it reflects the depth of bilateral cultural relations, enriches the book fair's cultural program, and boosts cultural and intellectual dialogue between the peoples of India and Qatar.

In turn, HE the Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Spain said that the event is not limited to showcasing books alone; rather, it represents a vibrant space for the exchange of ideas and expertise, support for the publishing industry, and an encouragement to reading, being an essential part in creating aware societies that are capable of facing future challenges. (QNA)