The Damascus International Book Fair administration announced that the fair welcomed approximately 250,000 visitors of all ages on its opening day, arriving from all Syrian governorates. This clearly indicates the significant interest in books and cultural events.
In a statement to SANA, the fair's administration explained that visitors flocked to view the latest publications and purchase books, as well as participate in book signings. Ten authors signed copies of their works on the first day.
The administration added that the first day's events included poetry readings and musical performances, in addition to a prominent presence at the Saudi Arabian pavilion, which celebrated Saudi artistic heritage through an exhibition that attracted a large number of Syrian and Saudi visitors.
The fair organizers noted the participation of approximately 500 publishing houses showcasing books in various fields, as well as a children's corner featuring theatrical performances and poetry recitations by young visitors and participants.
The exhibition management noted that the first day also featured diverse intellectual seminars, including a lecture by thinker Burhan Ghalioun discussing his book "Sectarianism: From State to Tribe," which concluded the day's events with a remarkable turnout.
The management stated that the most striking aspect of the exhibition's opening was the blend of a large public attendance and official tours of the participating pavilions, in addition to the participation of several cultural figures. Minister of Culture Muhammad Yassin Saleh opened a lecture by writer Adham Sharqawi, commemorating the late Riad Naasan Agha and welcoming the large public attendance at the Damascus International Book Fair.
The Damascus International Book Fair, in its exceptional edition, officially opened yesterday, Thursday, under the patronage and in the presence of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, at the Damascus Conference Palace. The opening witnessed broad official and cultural participation, including a number of ministers and prominent Arab political and intellectual figures, as well as a select group of writers and intellectuals.
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