44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) Kicks Off with Greece as Guest of Honor
The 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) commenced on Wednesday with a grand opening ceremony at the Sharjah Expo Centre, presided over by Emir Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a prominent patron of culture in the region. The event saw the participation of over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors from 118 countries. This year’s theme, “Between You and a Book,” is prominently displayed across the emirate.
About the Emir of Sharjah
Sheikh Sultán bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the ruler of Sharjah and a member of the UAE Supreme Council, is known for his passion for literature, history, and philosophy. His dedication to cultural initiatives has led to significant advancements in the region, including the completion of the first phase of the Arabic Integrated Encyclopedia.
Arabic Integrated Encyclopedia Update
The first phase of the Arabic Integrated Encyclopedia, titled “Arabic Integrated Encyclopedia of Sciences, Literature, Arts, and Eminent Figures,” has been successfully concluded. This comprehensive work aims to define and document Arabic sciences, literature, and related academic fields. It includes biographies and narratives of scholars, philosophers, writers, poets, linguists, exegetes, caliphs, kings, and other eminent figures throughout Arabic history, Islamic civilization, and beyond.
Cultural Personality of the Year
This year, Egyptian writer, poet, and dramatist Mohamed Salmawy was named the “Cultural Personality of the Year” by SIBF, recognizing his significant contributions and body of work.
Sharjah Book Fair Highlights
The SIBF has consistently ranked among the world’s most active book fairs for rights trading, as declared by CEO Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri. This year’s event features over 2,500 publishers from more than a hundred countries, showcasing the largest international gathering with substantial participation from African editors outside of Africa, extensive involvement from Indian and East Asian publishers, the most significant European presence outside Europe, and a consistently strong showing from Arab editors.
Greece’s Cultural Ties with the Arab World
Jason Fotilas, Greece’s Deputy Minister of Culture, speaking on behalf of the Guest of Honor country, emphasized the long-standing connections between Greece and the Arab world. He highlighted their shared respect for heritage and a common vision for the future, reflected in growing cooperation between their governments and leaders.
Greece’s Cultural Program
Fotilas further stated that Greece accepts this honor with full awareness of its significance. They are committed to presenting a cultural program that matches the scale of the event and reflects Greece’s rich creativity. They will bring forth the voices of Greek literature and thought, both ancient and modern, ready for open dialogue and global exchange. Culture, Fotilas noted, knows no boundaries and is not defined by language or belief systems.
