LOC13:36
10:36 GMT
KUWAIT, Nov 19 (KUNA) - Kuwait on Wednesday opened the 48th edition of the Kuwait International Book Fair under the patronage of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
The Book Fair is organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL). The 2025 fair features expanded programming, a larger publisher presence, and significant public turnout.
Minister of Information, Culture, and Youth Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi highlighted the strong cultural partnership between Kuwait and Oman, the fair's Guest of Honor, stressing the importance of Gulf and Arab cultural exchange. He also noted that this year's honoree, Mohammad bin Al-Zubair, is recognized for his prominent contribution to cultural development in the region.
Al-Mutairi said the fair offers diverse activities and platforms for writers, publishers, and intellectuals to engage in discussions on literature and knowledge.
He emphasized the critical role of media in showcasing Kuwait's cultural landscape and praised the broad cooperation between public and private sectors in ensuring the success of the fair, which coincides with Kuwait's designation as the 2025 Arab Capital of Culture and Media.
The minister underscored the importance of empowering youth, who make up the majority of society, and encouraging their involvement in cultural initiatives.
During an opening tour, Al-Mutairi visited the Omani pavilion and various Arab and international stands, expressing admiration for the wide range of new publications. Exhibitors praised the fair's improved organization and growing status among regional and international book fairs.
The event also saw strong attendance from students, families, authors, artists, and people with disabilities, who toured the halls and met with the minister. Exhibition spaces were redesigned for smoother visitor flow and featured halls named in honor of leading Kuwaiti literary figures, including Abdulrazzaq Al-Basir, Ismail Fahad Ismail, and Abdulaziz Hussein.
The Kuwait International Book Fair continues through November 29. (end)
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