By: Rana Azeem, TN Media News
Beijing, China – Saudi Arabia has officially inaugurated its pavilion as the Guest of Honor at the Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF) 2024, held from June 19 to 23 in the Chinese capital. This prestigious participation highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and international collaboration in the fields of literature, arts, and heritage.
Celebrating Saudi Culture on a Global Stage
Led by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the Saudi delegation includes esteemed representatives from various cultural and governmental entities. Among them are the Heritage Commission, the Culinary Arts Commission, the Ministry of Investment, the King Abdulaziz Foundation, the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, the King Abdulaziz Public Library, and the Saudi Publishers Association.
Their unified goal: to showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural legacy and explore investment opportunities within the Kingdom’s growing cultural sector.
Strengthening Bilateral Cultural Ties
Dr. Mohammed Hasan Alwan, CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, emphasized the significance of the Kingdom’s presence.
“Our participation aims to enhance cultural dialogue, deepen Saudi-Chinese ties, and foster mutual cooperation in the realms of literature, heritage, and the arts,” he noted.
A Diverse and Engaging Program
Throughout the five-day event, the Saudi pavilion will host a vibrant cultural showcase featuring:
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Seminars and dialogue sessions with writers and cultural experts
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Exhibitions of Saudi books, manuscripts, and heritage artefacts
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Live traditional performing arts and music
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A Saudi culinary event, offering authentic dishes and regional flavors
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A fashion display, highlighting Saudi attire and cultural dress
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A dedicated section for the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Award for Cultural Cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China
These activities aim to immerse visitors in the diverse cultural expressions of the Kingdom and open doors for international partnerships in publishing and the creative industries.
About the Beijing International Book Fair
First held in 1986, the Beijing International Book Fair is organized by the China National Publications Import and Export Group. It is recognized as the second-largest book fair in the world and the most influential in Asia, drawing over 2,600 exhibitors from more than 100 countries annually.
As Guest of Honor, Saudi Arabia’s participation underscores its growing role in global cultural dialogue and its ambition to promote its literary and artistic achievements to new international audiences.
