Saleh Fareed

Saudi Gazette

 

A spacious, beautifully designed stall by Saudi Arabia greets visitors as they step into the pavilion at the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair.



Apart from displaying colorful books on culture, arts and religion subjects, the stall offers a Makkah photo exhibition and sculpture section and information on the Kingdom’s culture.



Saudi Arabia is seeking to popularize its literature and culture, according to Dr. Saleh Al-Suhaibbani, cultural attaché at the Saudi Embassy in UAE.



He said: “Our participation opens a space for cultural exchange between the two countries and also to extend bridges of cultural and intellectual communication, exchange knowledge with others, and highlight our Saudi identity.



“We will always work to underscore our cultural heritage and promote intellectual and cultural knowledge.”



He said the Saudi pavilion displays nearly 42,000 books focusing on all aspects of literature, cultures and religion.



The Saudi attaché expressed pride at the opening of the pavilion at the book fair, which he said highlights the Kingdom’s identity.



“Several visitors showed a keen interest in the Saudi pavilion, which is an honor for our country,” he said.



“Books have always played a vital role in defining culture. This book fair is an excellent platform for different countries to engage in cultural and knowledge exchange.”



Sheikh Sultan Bin Muhamad Al-Qasimi, ruler of Sharjah, visited the Saudi pavilion. He received various gifts and also a special gift by Saudi well-known sculptor Ali Al-Tokhais.



Besides being the home to significant works from public organizations and universities, the pavilion also holds seminars and discussion sessions with the participation of Saudi authors and artists.