TEHRAN – Iranian publishing companies showcased their latest offerings at the 300th edition of the Provincial Book Fair that opened Wednesday in Ahvaz, which was selected as Iran’s Book Capital in late February 2015.

Over 400 Iranian publishers are participating in the book fair while 3000 books by 10 Arab publishers are also on display, Persian media reported.

A number of cultural officials including Deputy Culture Minister for Cultural Affairs Seyyed Abbas Salehi attended the opening ceremony.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Salehi said that more professional publishers are attending the fair this year.

“Moreover, the Iran Cultural Fairs Institute (ICFI) has been appointed to display books by those publishers that have not been able to attend,” he added.

According to ICFI director Amir-Masud Shahramnia, the book fair has been organized to meet the needs of those who have less access to the Tehran International Book Fair.

The book fair helps offer the latest publications and promote book reading as well, he added.

A variety of programs has been arranged on the sidelines of the fair, which will be running until January 26.

A workshop by author Chista Yasrebi, book review sessions, storytelling for children, exhibition of posters and book introduction ceremonies are also included.

RM/YAW
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