Sharjah opens its doors to global publishing experts

The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) organised an introductory session that brought together an elite group of European publishers and representatives of cultural institutions to discuss the expected effect of Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) on the book industry in the Arab world and Middle East, plus the opportunities it offers for publishing professionals across the world.
The session, of potentially global importance to the industry, was held on the sidelines of the SBA's participation in the 37th edition of the Paris Book Fair.
Held in the presence of Mu'dhid Hareb Al Khaili, UAE Ambassador to France, and Ahmed Al Ameri, chairman of the SBA, the event highlighted the SPC's goals and visions, the possible openings and facilities it will provide and Sharjah's role as a link for publishers connecting the Western and Arab book markets in general.
With the participation of more than 50 publishers and experts in the publishing industry from France and Europe, the session was attended by Vincent Montagne, president of Paris Book Fair, Guy Piaf, director general of the International Office of Publishers, and general director of Syndicate of French Publishers Union.
Al Ameri, the SBA chairman said: "The SPC aims to support cultural movement and scientific research on local, regional and international levels, promote publishing and printing and provide all the support needed to develop and advance the sector."
During the session, speakers turned the spotlight on Sharjah's publishing and printing laws, which make Sharjah Publishing City the world's first-of-its-kind publishing free zone, capitalising on the emirate's internationally acclaimed cultural status and its prominent economic presence in the Arab world and Middle East region in general.
- reporters@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Sharjah