The fair’s media director, Haider Hashem Al-Moussawi, emphasised its global scale, noting the participation of renowned publishers from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
In fact, the 4th Najaf International Book Fair kicked off 7 February, and runs ten days, so is soon to wind down, but deserves some better-late-than-never coverage.
The event has attracted 200 publishing houses from 20 Arab and foreign countries (I have sadly not managed to get a list), alongside numerous Iraqi publishers.
A Cultural Hub
Najaf, a city renowned for its intellectual and religious significance (classed as a “Holy City”), has reaffirmed its status as a cultural, intellectual, and religious centre in the Arab world, even if it passes unknown beyond. This year the fair showcases over 600,000 titles.
Government Support and Cultural Activities
The local government of Najaf has placed great emphasis on hosting cultural exhibitions and festivals, with this fair being one of the most significant literary and academic events in Iraq.
Per the press release, The event features a range of cultural activities, intellectual discussions, poetry evenings, and panel discussions on contemporary issues.
International Participation and Endorsement
The fair has received official endorsement from the Iraqi Presidency, highlighting its growing national significance, but the fair’s media director, Haider Hashem Al-Moussawi, emphasised its global scale, noting the participation of renowned publishers from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
If anyone is lucky enough to have been there, or can read Arabic reportage, I’d love to learn more.
Iraq News and ShiaWaves have more details.
Later this year the 26th Baghdad International Book Fair will take place.
This post first appeared in the TNPS LinkedIn newsfeed.
