Dr Shaikh Sultan made this announcement yesterday during the inaugural ceremony of the 26^th Sharjah World Book Fair. He said the translation institute would help build bridges between the West and the Middle East and remove the stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims in the Western countries.

The book fair, which is being held at the Sharjah Expo, will continue until December 31.

Speaking to reporters at the venue, Dr Shaikh Sultan said, “The translation institute will enhance cultural exchanges between the Middle East and the West and will also remove the misconception about Arabs and Muslims in the West.”

Earlier, taking a tour of the exhibition, Dr Shaikh Sultan said he was impressed by the large participation of publishers from Afro-Arab countries such as Libya, Morocco, and Mauritania. “Their books are of much interest to the readers of Arab countries,” he said.

Dr Shaikh Sultan also urged parents to encourage their children to inculcate reading habits.

He purchased books worth over Dh1 million to be distributed to public colleges and school libraries in the emirate.

Over 700 publishers from 55 countries are taking part in the Sharjah Book Fair this year. They include 120 publishers who are participating in the fair for the first time.

An estimated 100,000 titles in Arabic and English are being displayed at the fair.

The books cover a wide range of subjects, including electronics, Islam and children’s books. There are separate wings for books in Arabic, English and other languages, and those for children.

Symposia, lectures and poetry nights will also be held at the Sharjah Cultural Palace.