Baghdad, September 02 (QNA) - The 27th Baghdad International Book Fair kicked off Sept. 2.
The event is organized by the Iraqi Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, with the participation of 615 publishing houses representing 21 Arab and foreign countries, alongside a variety of cultural institutions.
Running until Sept. 12, 2026, the event is a major cultural demonstration characterized by the magnitude of domestic, Arab and foreign participation, Undersecretary of the Ministry Dr. Fadhil Al Badrani told Qatar News Agency (QNA).
He pointed out that previous editions featured an incredible participation from various countries, highlighting that Iraq shares special cultural relationships with Arab nations, asserting that he hoped to see the continuation of promoting Qatari participation in editions down the road.
Chairman of the Organizing Committee Dr. Abdul Wahab Al Radhi told QNA that the current edition features a combination of cultural programs that include almost six to seven panel discussions and cultural events daily.
He noted that one of the highlights of the current edition is the "I Read" initiative.
For her part, Hind Kamel, Advisor to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities for Cultural and Artistic Affairs, asserted that she was pleased with the incredible public turnout at the fair, considering the record attendance a reflection of growing awareness of the importance of culture and books in Iraqi society.
She said the record number of attendees is an indication that books still retain their standing and importance and that reading, and culture are a fulcrum for the Iraqi public’s interests.
The Iraqi Ministry of Trade said that it had put in place all technical, service and organizational requirements to ensure the success of the fair, which it described as a "major cultural event."
Ministry spokesperson Mohammed Hannoun asserted to QNA that the fair represents an important cultural event that reflects Baghdad’s civilizational and cultural standing and contributes to promoting reading and knowledge, while also providing broad space for communication among publishing houses, authors, intellectuals and the public. (QNA)