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Celebrating 52 years, The Beirut Book Fair is the oldest, the most established and prestigious book fair in the Arab region. Having received the honour as the World Book Capital for 2009, Beirut has become the ninth city to be designated with this title and joins international cities like Madrid (2001), Alexandria (2002), New Delhi (2003), Antwerp (2004), Montreal (2005), Turin (2006), Bogotá (2007) and Amsterdam (2008). The selection committee of members from UNESCO and three major branches of the global book industry - the International Publishers Association (IPA), the International Booksellers Federation (IBF) and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) chose Beirut based on its focus on cultural diversity, dialogues, tolerance and its diverse and stimulating programme and the city will enjoy the title as the World Book Capital for the 12 months between two celebrations of World Book and Copyright Day set for 23rd April 2009.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qassimi, Founder and CEO, Kalimat Publishing, said:
"Our books fulfill a niche segment that aims to drive Arabic reading at grass root level. The tremendous response we have received is a true statement of urgency that the communities wish to pursue in order to maintain the art of Arabic literature. We are fortunate to have found like-minded partners like Etisalat who recognize the importance of cultivating young minds. We are pleased with the unexpected outcome at this book fair and we look forward to coming back to the next one."
"Etisalat is a brand that believes in the Arabic culture and heritage. Kalimat books touch the hearts and minds of children by using reading as the role model for promoting our traditions. Using colourful illustrations and easy to read stories they deliver an impactful message to the society highlighting our customs and ways of life. This belief reflects Etisalat's commitment to the community and we are supporters of endeavors like this one by Kalimat Publishing," said Mr. Abdulaziz Taryam, General Manager Northern Emirates, Etisalat.
At the Kalimat Publishing Stand, authors Fatima Sharafeddine, Rida Bouzeineddine and Illustrator Manal Ziadeh participated in the series of book signing sessions organized throughout the fair. Left-handed children were able to relate to a boy in the story book "Ana Wa yadi Al Yusra", written and illustrated by Rida Bouzeineddine and Manal Ziadeh. These book signing events proved to be popular receiving hundreds of parents, children as well as school representatives, who purchased complete series from various titles. Participating in the Children's Book Publishers Association stand, Kalimat Publishing also offered discounts on books for school children throughout the period of the Beirut Book Fair 2008.
Posted by Siba Sami Ammari
