Baghdad: The Baghdad International Book Fair is experiencing a robust turnout as readers and visitors flock to the event, celebrating its focus on childhood and cultural enrichment. The Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities pavilion at this year’s 27th edition, organized by the Ministry of Culture, has hosted engaging activities such as a free drawing workshop by the Children’s Culture House. This initiative provided a platform for children to express their artistic talents. Additionally, a face painting workshop has drawn numerous families, enhancing the fair’s appeal.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the fair has attracted a diverse group of Arab artists, writers, literary figures, and historians, contributing to its vibrancy. A variety of publications and cultural events are on display, offering attendees a comprehensive literary experience. During his visit, Qasim Taher Al-Sudani, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture for Arts Affairs, highlighted the significant governmental support for the fair, noting the strong official and cultural presence as well as the impressive visitor numbers. He emphasized that the collective showcasing of the ministry’s pavilions has effectively highlighted its range of publications, spanning genres like short stories, novels, and translations.

Abdul Wahab Al-Radi, head of the organizing committee, described this year’s fair as exceptional, noting the large participation from Iraqi families eager to explore and purchase books. Al-Radi reiterated the enduring significance of books as vital sources of human knowledge, underscoring the fair’s role in promoting literary culture.