The visit by Morocco’s Minister of Culture to the fair marks a pivotal step in the country’s efforts to bridge cultural gaps and introduce its literary gems to a wider audience.
Casablanca – Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, visited the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), yesterday, an event that has rapidly become a global landmark for literary and cultural exchange.
The fair, running until November 17, at the Expo Centre Sharjah in the UAE, has welcomed thousands of visitors from all over the world to celebrate the power of books and storytelling.
Strengthening Morocco-Arab connections
The Sharjah Book Fair isn’t just a place for book sales; it’s a cultural hub where nations gather to celebrate creativity.
With over 2,000 exhibitors and 100+ countries participating, it serves as a global meeting point for authors, publishers, and thinkers. Minister Bensaid’s visit highlights Morocco’s intention to deepen cultural ties with the Arab world and beyond.
By fostering relationships with publishers and writers, Morocco is expanding its literary footprint and amplifying its cultural presence in the region.
Morocco as the guest of honor
This year, SIBF has placed a special spotlight on Morocco as the Guest of Honour. The Moroccan pavilion at the fair is a vibrant showcase of the country’s rich literary and cultural heritage, with more than 4,000 Moroccan titles on display.
Visitors are invited to explore the many facets of Moroccan culture, from the traditional to the contemporary.
The pavilion features unique events such as live Gnawa music performances, traditional art displays, and interactive cultural experiences that bring Morocco’s history and modern-day creativity to life.
A global literary exchange
Under the theme “It Starts with a Book,” the fair has attracted publishers, authors, and cultural figures from around the world.
International authors such as Bulgarian poet Georgi Gospodinov, Pakistani novelist Amna Mufti, and British entrepreneur Stephen Bartlett are engaging with attendees through thought-provoking panels and discussions.
One of the key highlights this year is the inclusion of 600 interactive workshops designed for people of all ages, from creative writing to digital content creation and social media.
These sessions provide a platform for both budding and established creators to learn and grow within the literary world.
Stories translated, shared for all
At this year’s fair, the spotlight was on innovation in literature, with a strong focus on digital publishing.
Riding this digital wave, Morocco aims to join the world in promoting its literature through new mediums, making it more accessible and appealing to younger audiences worldwide. With the rise of e-books, audiobooks, and online platforms, Morocco is exploring how to integrate its literary tradition with the digital age.
Minister Bensaid’s meetings at the fair focused on how Moroccan authors can take advantage of these platforms to reach new global audiences.
The minister met with key publishers to discuss opportunities for translating Moroccan works into other languages, a step toward reaching global readers who are eager for fresh perspectives.
Whether through digital book fairs, collaborations, or translation partnerships, Morocco is positioning itself as a forward-thinking player in the global publishing arena.
The goal is clear; showcase the diversity and vibrancy of Moroccan literature to international markets.
Turning pages, building bridges
At the heart of the Sharjah Book Fair lies the idea of cultural exchange.
Minister Bensaid highlighted the power of literature in fostering dialogue between nations and cultures.
By sharing Moroccan stories, authors can connect with readers from diverse backgrounds, creating mutual understanding and appreciation.
Morocco’s participation at SIBF is not just about showcasing books; it’s about opening doors to new cultural conversations that transcend borders.
Bookmarking a new era
Minister Bensaid’s visit to the Sharjah International Book Fair is just the beginning.
By strengthening cultural connections and embracing digital opportunities, Morocco’s literary future looks bright.
The nation is ready to turn the page on a new chapter – one that invites the world to explore its rich, diverse, and inspiring literary landscape.
As Morocco continues to share its stories globally, its authors will undoubtedly leave their mark on the world’s literary map.
Ink to impact
As SIBF continues, attendees still have the opportunity to explore the vibrant Moroccan pavilion, attend workshops, and participate in the fair’s numerous cultural activities.
The festival serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of literature and storytelling in connecting people from all walks of life.
With its global reach and diverse cultural offerings, SIBF remains a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the shared power of books.
For those who have yet to experience the fair, it’s not too late to immerse yourself in the world of literature, culture, and international collaboration.
Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a book enthusiast, or simply someone passionate about cultural exploration, SIBF 2024 promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of storytelling.
