It reiterated that pilgrims require a Haj visa and it can be obtained through recognised official channels
It will bring together hundreds of authors and publishers from around the world, with the "distinguished guests participating in a comprehensive programme of activities that include conferences, reading sessions, panel discussions and lectures", said the organisers.
"Over the course of three-and-a-half decades, the SIBF has become established as the region's premium platform for the very best in science, literature, art and culture. The fair was conceived by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, whose vision has led to a cultural renaissance that has enriched human knowledge, elevated intellect and created a solid foundation on which younger generations can build a better and brighter future," said Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA).
"Since its inception 35 years ago, the SIBF has been one of the main pillars for this cultural renaissance, with each edition building on the success of the previous one. The SIBF has developed into the third largest book fair in the world and is an event that attracts thousands of publishers, authors and illustrators - as well as millions of visitors - from around the world," he added.
As announced by the SBA earlier this year, the United Kingdom (UK) will be hosted as the SIBF's 'Country of Honour'. To celebrate, a special programme showcasing some of Britain's most honoured cultural and literary figures will be organised by the SBA in collaboration with the British Council.
"Our ongoing efforts to develop SIBF chime perfectly with Sharjah's latest achievement, which is its selection as World Book Capital 2019 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco). This title is an international recognition of Sharjah's pivotal role in the field of culture, knowledge and literature and underscores that the emirate has become the cultural beating heart of the region," Al Ameri noted.
"The forthcoming edition of the SIBF will bring together an elite group of authors, publishers and artists from around the world. It will feature a diverse cultural programme, which will address different forms of literature, arts and sciences. The programme forms part of the SIBF's vision to be a key element in the building of a knowledge-based society and in creating a generation of readers who are the future of Sharjah and the UAE," Al Ameri stressed.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com
It reiterated that pilgrims require a Haj visa and it can be obtained through recognised official channels
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